In Rye this year, Remembrance felt deeper, quieter somehow — as if the whole town was holding its breath beneath the November sky remembering that it was 80 years since the end of the second world war.
The bells of St Mary’s drifted over cobbles still damp from the morning rain, and people stood shoulder to shoulder by the memorial wearing their poppies. Silence settled — not empty, but full of memory. In that stillness, Rye remembered not only its fallen, but the fragile gift of peace that their absence left behind.
This year is also the centenary of the unveiling of the original Cenotaph (1925) – a hundred years since Britain’s most iconic war memorial was dedicated to the “Glorious Dead,” adding extra layers of reflection about how Remembrance itself has evolved.
It was wonderful to see so many youngsters planting their crosses around the beautifully restored Rye war memorial: grandchildren and great-grandchildren remembering relatives or soldiers they had never met.
After years of uncertain times: the pandemic, economic strain and wars, people seemed to stand together with a shared need for unity and quiet gratitude.
Colonel Anthony Kimber, President of Rye British Legion and organiser of the Remembrance service, said, “Whatever your own personal thoughts and views on military service, Remembrance Sunday provides the opportunity to mark the service and sacrifice of all those who have defended or are still defending our freedoms and protecting our way of life.
“During 2025, we marked the 80th anniversary of the end of the second world war; the survivors are few, but there are plenty of us who have served and fought in numerous campaigns since 1945, who have memories of lost or injured comrades. We will remember all of them.
“In Rye, hundreds turned out to take part in a very memorable Remembrance 2025. In addition to serving soldiers, sailors and airmen, veterans and citizens from Rye and the surrounding villages, it was pleasing to see dozens of young people from the youth organisations. Only through the involvement of youth will we keep Remembrance going.”
