The Armistice Day UK commemorations were marked by solemn ceremonies led by members of the Royal Family, honoring the courage and sacrifice of those who served during the First and Second World Wars. Across the United Kingdom and beyond, citizens observed the traditional two-minute silence at 11:00 GMT to remember the fallen.
At the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, the Princess of Wales, Catherine, joined veterans and their families in a moving ceremony where the Last Post echoed across the grounds. She laid a wreath at the heart of the Armed Forces Memorial before bowing her head in quiet reflection. Her presence symbolized the enduring commitment of the monarchy to remembrance and national unity.
Queen Camilla and Princess Anne Lead International Services
In London, Queen Camilla attended a wreath-laying ceremony at Paddington Station, having traveled by train to honor the occasion. She met with service members and veterans, continuing the long-standing royal tradition of paying tribute on Armistice Day.
Meanwhile, Princess Anne, accompanied by her husband Sir Timothy Laurence, represented the monarchy overseas at Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane, Australia. She laid a wreath and met with serving personnel, veterans, and their families, emphasizing the global significance of remembrance.
Prince William’s Message to the Youth
The Prince of Wales, in a heartfelt video address to young people across Britain, spoke about the importance of remembrance. He said, “When we remember, we connect with service in a personal way. We learn from the courage of others and carry their stories forward.” He added that wearing a red poppy or observing silence symbolizes gratitude and collective memory, reminding citizens that “we have not forgotten, and we will not forget.”
Poetry and Reflection at the National Memorial Arboretum
The ceremony also featured a specially commissioned poem, A Sonnet For Us All, by the Arboretum’s poet-in-residence Arji Manuelpillai, which reflected on love, sacrifice, and remembrance. His words captured the emotion and human connection behind every memorial engraved with the stories of those who served.
Later in the day, King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince William will host a reception at Windsor Castle for veterans of the Pacific campaign, marking the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ Day). The event continues the royal family’s dedication to honoring the bravery and resilience of those who fought for peace.
Across the country—from London to Edinburgh and small towns like Guildford—thousands gathered to bow their heads in unity, ensuring the legacy of the fallen continues to inspire future generations.
