Remembrance Day, observed annually on November 11, honors the soldiers and civilians who sacrificed their lives in wars. Founded in 1919, it features royal events like the ‘Field of Remembrance’ and the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance, culminating in national ceremonies and a moment of silence. The Cenotaph in London is a key commemorative site. The poppy symbolizes remembrance, reminding us of the sacrifices made, notably celebrated through the poignant poem ‘In Flanders Fields.’
The Significance of Remembrance Day in the UK
Remembrance Day is a solemn memorial day observed across the United Kingdom and Commonwealth nations, honoring the brave soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in warfare. Since its inception in 1919, this day has been commemorated annually on November 11, marking the end of World War I in 1918. The late Queen Elizabeth II, who served as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces for many years, held a unique connection to this day, being a mother and grandmother to those who have served. As King Charles continues this cherished tradition, he will lay wreaths in remembrance of the fallen soldiers, keeping his mother’s legacy alive.
Royal Traditions Surrounding Remembrance Day
The days leading up to Remembrance Day are filled with significant royal events. One such occasion is the ‘Field of Remembrance,’ which takes place every Thursday morning before Remembrance Sunday. This memorial garden, organized by the Poppy Factory in London since 1928, is inaugurated by a member of the royal family. The lawn of St. Margaret’s Church is transformed into 380 small plots, each representing different military associations. Visitors can purchase a wooden cross, adorned with a poppy and often inscribed with the name of a fallen soldier, to place in the garden. Notably, from 2013 to 2019, Prince Harry participated in opening the field, often alongside his grandfather, Prince Philip. In 2022, Queen Camilla took part in this meaningful ceremony for the first time.
Another important event is the Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance, held at the Royal Albert Hall in London on the Saturday before Remembrance Sunday since 1923. This event unites military and civilian performers, veterans, and members of the armed forces, all gathering to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, including participation from the royal family.
On Remembrance Sunday, ceremonies take place across the nation, with a national moment of silence observed at 11 a.m. This day has been commemorated since 1919 on the nearest Sunday to November 11. The Cenotaph in London, a poignant symbol of the immense losses from World War I, serves as the focal point for a memorial service that has been broadcast on national television since 1920. Here, high-ranking officials and members of the royal family gather to pay their respects. Since ascending the throne in 1952, the late Queen laid a wreath at the Cenotaph until 2015, and since 2017, King Charles has continued this tradition. The royal family typically watches the ceremony from a balcony, with members who hold military titles marching alongside the armed forces.
Only a handful of occasions see senior royals appear together, one of which is Remembrance Sunday. This year, King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other prominent royals, including Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, are expected to attend. Notably, Prince Andrew is anticipated to miss the official events, following his previous withdrawals linked to personal controversies.
The poppy, a powerful symbol of Remembrance Day, is worn by many, including the royals, as a mark of respect. These poppy pins serve to remind us of the bloodshed in the Flanders fields, immortalized in the poem ‘In Flanders Fields’ by Canadian poet John McCrae. Moreover, poppies were among the first flowers to bloom on the graves of soldiers, symbolizing hope amidst loss.