A couple of years ago, around this time of year, I was on a bus: packed to the rafters with old folk but sad to report, I didn't see one single poppy. For many many many reasons of remembrance, learning and much more; lest we forget.
4 or 5 years ago a member of the family was rushed to hospital on the Remembrance Sunday. We jumped in the car and dashed to the QE2 Gateshead A&E. We walked through the door into the reception/waiting area, only for everyone to suddenly stand up, as if in defference. It was then it dawned on me it was 11am and the silence was excellent. It was a strange moment.
On the other side of the coin I use North Sea Ferries a fair bit and on most crossings there are school trips going to or have been to war / historical sites (can't think of a better description) good to see kids learning about it.
I laid a wreath at a rememberance ceremony yesterday for the Royal Naval Patrol Service at the memorial on Grimsby Docks I must admit that I wasn’t aware of the sacrifice they made I am planning to do more research but it seemed to be trawlermen, in this area anyway, that worked to keep the Humber clear of mines during both World Wars The amount of trawlers that we’re sunk by enemy fire was frightening (39 in Grimsby area alone) There were 2385 sailors who died doing that round the UK and were never recovered. As the memorial stone says ‘those who have no grave but the sea’ Humbling
If in London take a look at the merchant navy memorial near tower bridge. Has all ship names , sailors lost and home town of ship. Needless to say a lot from both sides of the Humber.
Went today. Beautifully observed. Very moving. Sad to see armed police on patrol. Other police present too. Slight disappointment was they didn't stop the traffic for five minutes at 11. It wouldn't have taken much to do it. Literally a policeman In the road stopping them. Some idiot went past with his stereo booming out crap.
Work in st stephens . Excellent 2 mins. However one young girl was walking around oblivious of every other person. All i could think was what does she think is happening. Nearly laughed in a strange way.
I was in a sports shop, everyone stopped, including staff, at 11am, complete silence. Until a middle-aged couple came in, he says 'what's going on', she says 'it's remembrance day', they carried on shopping.
Was there myself Chazz and at the end a 3 pip on the shoulder, tall guy, General? He inspected those who were former servicemen and he stopped to chat for one guy and later I looked at the guy who he chatted too. 9 medals pinned to his tunic and everyone gleamed, others as well had 6, 7 and 8 medals, as you say sombre and yes a thought the same as you the traffic spoiled the occasion especially an ambulance that came along siren blaring, oddly enough for a second or two it was turned off as the driver must have realised what was going on. Glad to see some of the younger parents still bringing their children along, must admit I was dreading some yob going by, British or otherwise, shouting some obscene profanity during the proceedings.
Ye saw the top man chatting to the line. Couple in their late 50's near me crying. Must have lost a son or daughter, maybe. Awful to see.
I wonder if that is what that camera man was filming, a very professional TV type camera not some amateur enthusiast.
