The Remembrance service at St Mary’s Rye this year was made the more poignant because 2024 marks the anniversaries of many important moments in past conflicts. It served both as a tribute to history and a sober reminder of the ongoing need for peace.The service was led by Revd Paul White, rector of St Mary’s.
President of Rye Royal British Legion, Colonel Anthony Kimber, said at the event: “It was wonderful to see so many at today’s Remembrance event in Rye. It is always pleasing to see so many young people taking part. Today is an opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of all those who have defended or still are defending our freedoms and protecting our way of life.
“Whatever your own personal thoughts and views, Remembrance enables us to reflect on and to remember those from our own families who served, those who have fallen and those seriously injured in war. This is not just about the past. With war raging in Ukraine, the Middle East, parts of Africa and the Far East, British forces are suffering today in various conflicts and the support for ex-servicemen and women provided by Royal British Legion through its poppy appeal is vital.”
‘This year we remember the anniversary of several campaigns and those who fought and died in them:
‘The 25th of the NATO peacekeeping operation in Kosovo; and the 60th anniversary of the end of National Service; the 80th anniversary of D-Day; the Battle of Monte Cassino; the Battles of Kohima and Imphal; Operation Market Garden and the Battle of the Scheldt.
‘We will remember them.’”
This year there were more standard bearers than ever, including five children from the same family. Flipflop Jess, their mother, was moved to see them all in the service. “It was such a proud moment for me watching my four girls carrying the flags for their units on Sunday. Shelby, the eldest, has been involved since she joined Brownies and has now has gone all the way through and runs her own Brownies unit. I’m hoping the three other girls follow suit too. Shelby carried the Rangers standard, Ivy carried the Guides, Paisley carried the Brownies and Nellie, the youngest, carried the Rainbows standard which was bigger than she was! Lastly Albert-Ty, my youngest, laid a wreath (with a little help). Belonging to these organisations gives my children so many opportunities and they learn to be part of a team and gain confidence. It was so good to see how proud they were representing their units.”
Image Credits: Kt bruce , Flipflop Jess .