Rishi Sunak joined by former PMs at Cenotaph for Remembrance Sunday
This year's Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph in London saw the presence of Rishi Sunak along with all former prime ministers who are currently alive. Additionally, Suella Braverman, who is currently facing difficulties in her position of home secretary, was also present at the ceremony.
King Charles was the head of a huge crowd that consisted of retired soldiers, experienced leaders of the government, and regular people honoring the service men and women who lost their lives serving for Britain in the previous and more recent wars.
At 11am, the commencement of the two-minute silence was marked by the resounding chimes of Big Ben. The silence was then concluded by the firing of a cannon from Horse Guards Parade, immediately followed by a bugler playing the last post.
Less than a day ago, there were disturbing incidents near the Cenotaph as extremist demonstrators clashed with officials in opposition to a significantly larger demonstration supporting Palestine.
The initial wreath for the UK was placed by King Charles who paid respect to the Cenotaph with a salute. Subsequently, other members of the royal family also showed their respects by placing wreaths.
Next, a ring of foliage was placed as a tribute on behalf of Queen Camilla, who was wearing all black. Shortly thereafter, the Prince of Wales, the Duke of Edinburgh and Princess Anne did the same.
Throughout the day's services, the Cenotaph will be under the constant surveillance of police officers who will be on duty for 24 hours. Approximately 1,375 officers will be deployed for this purpose.
On Armistice Day, clashes between police and individuals affiliated with Tommy Robinson's far-right movement and football hooliganism occurred in Whitehall. These groups had traveled to central London to oppose the pro-Palestinian demonstrators who were advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza.
On Saturday, a vast number of individuals walked calmly through the central area of London in opposition to Israel's ongoing attacks on Gaza.
The protest occurred at a time of increased tension between the Metropolitan police and the home secretary. Recently, the home secretary accused the police of being biased towards leftwing causes and pro-Palestinian groups during demonstrations. She referred to such groups as "hate marchers."
At the start of the week, officials in the government such as Braverman and the justice secretary, Alex Chalk, expressed their skepticism about allowing the march to take place on Saturday as they believed it posed a threat to Remembrance events and could potentially cause damage to the Cenotaph.
Every year, the primary event held at the Cenotaph happens on Remembrance Sunday. Prior to World War II, there was also a tribute ceremony for those who lost their lives on Armistice Day.
The procession was attended by atomic test veterans, who sported a medal recognizing their role in it for the first time.
It took 70 long years for the individuals who were exposed to the impact of nuclear bombs during the UK's testing programme to finally be recognized and receive a medal that had an atom surrounded by olive branches on it. This medal was given to them during the Remembrance Sunday service.
Over 300 assorted groups of soldiers and non-military groups were present, alongside an additional 300 retired soldiers who were not associated with any organization and were asked to attend their first event.
Sunak expressed his admiration for the bravery and dedication demonstrated by our military personnel, past and present. He recognizes that their sacrifices are truly remarkable and believes that many individuals nationwide will pay tribute to their legacy through private contemplation.
The things that have occurred lately have reminded us that we must not assume that we will always have the peace we enjoy. That's why I feel privileged to be able to place a wreath on behalf of the whole nation to honor all those who sacrificed their lives to protect our country and the things we value so dearly.
I am committed to guaranteeing that we always remember the most significant contribution they have given.