Remembrance weekend is always a poignant time. We remember those men and women who have given their lives in defence of our nation and also those who are still serving on our behalf, both here and around the world.
Living in the South West, with our rich heritage of military tradition surrounding us - Devonport, Bickleigh, the Citadel, Stonehouse - our remembrance services have an added significance as we stand with the families of those local people who have lost loved ones in conflicts over the last century and more.
On Friday morning, I had the privilege of standing with those in Plymstock whose family members are commemorated at the War Memorial on Burrow Hill. The service which was established by community activist Gill Whillock has been steadily growing in size and saw representatives from the Armed Forces, local schools and the community joining together to remember those who have given their lives. The views of Plymouth are stunning from up there and somehow it seemed to make real the words and prayers that were spoken.
On Friday afternoon, local hero, Mark Ormrod was honoured by the City of Plymouth at a presentation at the Lord Mayor’s residence on the Hoe. Mark was serving with the Royal Marines in Afghanistan when he stood on a mine and was left a triple amputee. It was inspiring to be present as his achievements were recognised, including his most recent successes at the Invictus Games in Toronto.
Friday evening saw the annual Festival of Remembrance at the Pavilions which was particularly well done this year. How wonderful to see the cadets marching and performing so effectively.
The pinnacle of the weekend will always be the Sunday open air service of remembrance at the War Memorial on the Hoe. The combination of serving military personnel, veterans and civilians as well as civic leaders is both poignant and potent. In the moment of silence I always reflect on how young most of those were who were sent to defend us and who paid the ultimate sacrifice and how much of life’s ups and downs, sorrows and joys they missed out on. For our sake.
In reflective mode up on the Hoe, it was clear to me that many dangers and potential conflicts lay in wait for us. I trust and pray that today’s global leaders will learn the lessons of history and that we are not destined to repeat those same mistakes.