Posted on Wednesday 6th November 2019
Remembrance Sunday commemorations at the National Memorial Arboretum
People are being invited to take some time on Remembrance Sunday (10 November) and Armistice Day (Monday 11 November) to honour those who lost their lives during the nation’s wars.
Leading the nation’s commemorations are services at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas on both days, including the Field of Remembrance display which opened on Monday 4 November. Rows upon rows of tributes with scarlet poppies, personal messages and photographs, all helping bring home why Remembrance continues to be such an important and personal event.
Staffordshire has many other poignant war memorials, gardens and attractions, most of which will be hosting commemoration services over the weekend.
Major General John Henderson CB, Chief Executive at Staffordshire County Council will be attending a special Armistice Day service at Burns Street Memorial in Chadsmoor, Cannock. He will also spend time with pupils from Chadsmoor CofE (VC) Junior School. John said:
“This is a very special time when we remember those men and women who served our country in conflicts past and present, especially those who carry physical or mental scars from their service, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Along with the many who support and understand the commitment of our Armed Forces, I would encourage people to try and attend a service of Remembrance to show their support.”
HM Lord-Lieutenant Mr Ian Dudson CBE KStJ and the Staffordshire Lieutenancy will also be represented at services across the county over the weekend. Including at the National Memorial Arboretum and Royal Stoke University Hospital, as well as in Stafford, Stone, Rugeley, Penkridge, Tamworth, Burton, Cannock, Leek and Lichfield. Mr Dudson said:
“The focus of our Remembrance this year has switched to the Second World War as we continue to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of key events of the conflict such as D-Day and the Battle of Arnhem and as we move towards next year’s VE and VJ days.
“Staffordshire’s place as the year round centre for Remembrance, notably at the National Memorial Arboretum, will be supplemented by events around the whole County as we remember all those from Staffordshire who have made the ultimate sacrifice serving their Country in all conflicts.”
Staffordshire has strong connections with the armed forces and is home to three Signal Regiments in Stafford, the Defence Medical Services in Whittington, as well as a large number of Reserve units and Cadets.
The county also continues to be very proud to be home to the National Memorial Arboretum at Alrewas, a lasting tribute to those who serve their country, die in conflict or have a special reason for being remembered.