A Message of Remembrance from Prince William
Prince William, the Prince of Wales, will deliver a video message to young people across Britain, emphasizing the significance of remembrance on Armistice Day. His address is part of a special event organized by the Royal British Legion, aimed at engaging children aged 9 to 14 in schools, libraries, and educational institutions throughout the UK.
The video message will be shared during the Remembrance Assembly, which is set to take place today. It is expected to highlight the importance of wearing a poppy as a symbol of respect for those who served in the First World War and subsequent conflicts.
The Importance of Remembrance
In his message, Prince William is anticipated to express the value of reflection on Armistice Day. He will likely state:
- “Armistice Day is an important time for us to stop and reflect – it is a reminder that remembrance is for everyone.
- When we remember, we connect with service in a personal way.
- We learn from the courage of others, and we carry their stories forward, so they are not forgotten.”
He will also emphasize that remembrance is not solely about the past but also about shaping the future. According to him:
- “It’s not just about the past – it’s about shaping who we become in the future.
- Remembrance teaches us empathy, resilience and responsibility.
- And when we wear a red poppy or take a moment of silence, we are saying, ‘Thank you. We have not forgotten, and we will not forget.’”
Encouraging Young People to Honor Service Members
Having served in the Army and RAF for seven years, Prince William will encourage young people to remember veterans and current service members. He will mention:
- “Through my own military experience, as well as through my work in connection with units across the Royal Navy, the Army and the Royal Air Force, I have seen first-hand the hard work, dedication and duty the armed forces carry out to ensure we are protected.
- Coming together for remembrance is a vital way to honour those whose service keeps us safe.
- Even today, as we continue to face a number of conflicts across the world, we honour those who have gone before us, and those who are serving now.”
He will further add:
- “Their memories matter, their lives matter, and they remind us to be respectful, kind, brave and thoughtful every day.”
Accessing the Video and Other Events
Young people, their parents, and teachers can view the prince’s video assembly via YouTube and Zoom starting at 10:25 am. The event will also feature a two-minute silence at 11 am.
Meanwhile, the Princess of Wales will attend a ceremony at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. Prince William will join the King and Queen at Windsor Castle for a veterans’ reception.
William and Kate shared an Armistice Day message on their official Instagram page, featuring a video of the Arboretum’s poet-in-residence, Arji Manuelpillai.
Global Observance of Armistice Day
Countries across Europe, including Belgium, France, and Poland, commemorate Armistice Day due to the devastation caused by the world wars. Leaders such as Emmanuel Macron are hosting services at the Arc de Triomphe, while there is a march in Warsaw.
Remembrance Day is observed annually on November 11 to mark the end of the First World War. Remembrance Sunday, held on the second Sunday of November, honors those who died in both World Wars. Ceremonies were held at the Cenotaph last weekend, and the observance has expanded to include all those who have died in conflicts since.
The red poppy remains the traditional symbol of Remembrance Day, though white, purple, black, and rainbow poppies are also seen.