URGENT UPDATE: The Prince and Princess of Wales are set to commemorate Armistice Day today, November 11, 2023, with significant events aimed at honoring veterans and fostering remembrance among young people across the UK.
Prince William will deliver a powerful video message to children at the Royal British Legion’s Remembrance Assembly, starting at 10:25 AM. His message emphasizes that “remembrance is for everyone,” encouraging youth aged 9-14 to reflect on the sacrifices made by veterans and current service members.
In his heartfelt address, William states, “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.” He highlights the lessons of empathy, resilience, and responsibility that come from honoring those who served.
The virtual event will culminate in a two-minute silence at 11:00 AM, allowing participants to pause and reflect together. Notably, the assembly will feature the moving testimonies of Second World War veterans, including 101-year-old George Durrant, who served in Burma, and 100-year-old Prince Albert Jacob, a former Royal Air Force member.
Meanwhile, Princess Kate will attend the Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, beginning at 10:45 AM. This poignant ceremony also includes a two-minute silence at 11:00 AM, followed by a wreath-laying on the Armed Forces Memorial.
The service will feature a reading of a specially commissioned poem, “A Sonnet For Us All,” by Arji Manuelpillai, the arboretum’s poet in residence. He notes that the poem captures the stories etched into memorials and resonates with themes of service and compassion that are close to the heart of the Princess of Wales.
After the ceremony, Kate will view newly dedicated names on the Armed Forces Memorial and meet with veterans present at the service.
Later, at Windsor Castle, Prince William will join the King and Queen for a reception honoring veterans who served in the Pacific during the Second World War, continuing the 80th-anniversary commemorations of VJ Day (Victory over Japan).
These events today are a vital reminder of the sacrifices made for peace and security, calling on all to reflect on and honor the bravery of those who served. As the nation pauses for remembrance, the messages from the royal family reinforce the importance of gratitude and connection to our history.
Stay tuned for live updates as both events unfold throughout the day.
