Why Do We Have Remembrance Day?
Image of a soldier visiting a grave surrounded by poppies
What Is Remembrance Day?
Remembrance day is a day of memorial to those who lost their life in the World Wars whilst serving the country. It also goes by three other names which are poppy day and armistice day and remembrance Sunday, which are all commonly used. It has taken place every year since the end of the first World War, and is observed by most members of the commonwealth.
When Is Remembrance Day?
Remembrance Day takes place on the 11th day of the 11th month. This is because the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 marked the day that World War One came to an end. The German Army surrendered and all countries involved agreed to stop fighting. The treaty of Versailles was signed and the War officially ended.
How Do We Commemorate Our Fallen Soldiers?
The main way we pay our respects to the soldiers who sadly lost their lives fighting for their country in the two World Wars is to hold a national silence. The United Kingdom holds a two minute silence at 11am on the 11th of November. This time is used to reflect on how those soldiers gave everything to save our country and to be grateful for the sacrifices they made.
There are many other acts of remembrance that take place such as remembrance services in churches, placing poppy wreaths at war memorials and other remembrance events such as the armed forces marching in the streets to pay their respects.
Why Is The Poppy Used For Remembrance Day?
The red poppy is universally known as a symbol of remembrance, however the reasoning behind the poppy is not commonly known. When World War One ended, some of the British troops were fighting the German troops in Belgium on Flanders Field. During the war, the once beautiful fields were destroyed and the field was turned into a warzone. After the war had ended, poppies started to grow on the field once again.
They represented hope and new beginnings. Pins of poppies are sold every year with the money going to the Royal British Legion, which supports the families of veterans of the British Armed Forces. Millions of people around Britain wear poppies with pride, including the royal family.
Why Is Remembrance Day Important?
Remembrance day is so important as the day is used to acknowledge the sacrifices that the soldiers made for their country and also to admire the bravery the young men had. We also use the day as a way to take responsibility to keep the peace between nations, which they had fought so hard for.
Remembrance Day is also important as we are able to celebrate the amazing acts of heroism that took place. So please, when the 11th of November rolls around, take some time to think of the sacrifices others made in the past so we could lead a prosperous future.
