King Charles to lay wreath and lead nation in Remembrance Sunday silence
King Charles will place wreaths at the Cenotaph and guide the country in a two-minute moment of silence at 11am to honor those who lost their lives in both world wars, along with others who have died in conflicts involving British and Commonwealth troops.
The Prince and Princess of Wales will be attending the national remembrance service at the Cenotaph alongside the king and prominent political figures to pay tribute to everyone who lost their lives.
The silence observed on Remembrance Sunday commemorates the significant moment when World War I concluded in 1918, precisely at 11:00 AM on the 11th day of the 11th month—just six hours after the ceasefire agreement was finalized. This year, Armistice Day falls on Monday, November 11th.
On Sunday, around 10,000 veterans will parade past the Cenotaph in Whitehall, showcasing 326 various military and civilian groups affiliated with the Royal British Legion, the charity that organizes the yearly Poppy Appeal.
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) anticipates that thousands will gather to honor the occasion and take part in the two-minute silence.
This year marks several significant anniversaries: it's the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings during World War II, the 25th anniversary of the conclusion of the war in Kosovo, the 75th anniversary of NATO, and the 120th anniversary of the Entente Cordiale between the United Kingdom and France.
Over 800 members of the military, including sailors, soldiers, and airmen, are anticipated to be present at the Cenotaph and during memorial services at Westminster Abbey and Westminster Cathedral.
The prime minister expressed that the bravery and dedication shown by countless individuals throughout history unites the nation in a deep sense of gratitude and respect.
Keir Starmer stated: "This weekend, we unite to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the safety of our nation."
The liberties we have now, including our democratic rights, principles, and lifestyle, have been earned through the struggles of many generations.
We will always be grateful to the courageous individuals who took up arms to protect our nation and gave everything for it.
"We pay tribute to them today and every day. They are in our thoughts today and for all time."
Altogether, about 6,000 troops will be sent on missions and stationed at international bases across the globe on Remembrance Sunday.
The defense secretary, John Healey, stated that it is important to “teach upcoming generations about the bravery and dedication shown in protecting Britain.”
He stated: "On Remembrance Sunday, we come together to support our military community and pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for our liberty."
"We reflect on the brave individuals who fought for freedom in Europe on D-Day 80 years ago. We also honor those who gave everything for our nation during the wars that came before and after."
Kemi Badenoch, making her debut as the Conservative leader at the event, expressed, "We are deeply grateful to our military and the families behind them." She also emphasized her desire to honor those who have lost their lives in service.
The DCMS mentioned that individuals of all ages will be part of the march, including grieving children of British soldiers who receive support from the charity Scotty’s Little Soldiers, as well as D-Day veterans from the Spirit of Normandy Trust.
Defense Minister Al Carns, a veteran of the Afghanistan war, will also march by the Cenotaph with the Royal Marines Association.
Philippa Rawlinson, the remembrance director at the Royal British Legion, stated, “We must express our appreciation to those who decide to serve in the military. This weekend, we invite everyone to pause and honor their commitment and sacrifices.”
