We Will Remember Them

Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 10:31 AM
Written by Sharona B

World War 1 officially ended 'at the 11^th hour, of the 11^th day of the 11^th month' back in 1918. Ever since then 11^th November has been Remembrance Day, a day to contemplate the sacrifices made by the armed forces and acknowledge the civilian losses in the 'war to end all wars'.

Also known as Armistice Day or Veterans Day, Commonwealth countries commemorate the day with parades, military ceremonies and the observation of one or two minutes' silence.

In Australia and New Zealand the day has been incorporated into ANZAC Day to remember all wars. In Canada there are gun salutes and a flypast. In South Africa the South African Legion holds street collections to raise funds for welfare projects for veterans. In the UK the day is celebrated with all the pomp and circumstance that you would expect - with the armed forces, civic leaders and local organizations turning out in force, spruced up in their uniforms and marching to local war memorials to lay wreaths.

Wherever you are on 11^th November: wear your red poppy with pride and don't forget that it is more than a colorful accessory to your clothes; it symbolizes the blood spilt for the freedom of future generations.