REMEMBRANCE DAY: HONORING THE LEGACY THAT UNITES US

I think of all those that have died, even though I never knew them, and of those who suffered life-changing injuries, medical conditions and mental scars. I also think of the families that have been affected by war and how that must have radically changed their lives. I also think of the many veterans who have returned home and have struggled to make a life for themselves after their years of service. Many struggle with their mental health, or find it difficult to find meaningful employment, or even a safe place to sleep at night. Yet, in my experience, veterans have so much to offer and we owe it to them as a society to give them all the help and support they need, to repay our debt to them for their service and the sacrifices they have made.

So, for me, November 11th isn’t just about remembering and honouring those who have fallen on battlefields, it is also about remembering those who are still with us and how we should be forever in their debt. As Winston Churchill so aptly put it “Never was so much owed by so many to so few”.

Rossa Donovan – Director of Consultancy,

Remembrance Day is a time to reflect on the sacrifices of those who have served in wars and conflicts, both past and present. It’s an opportunity to honour the bravery, commitment and loss suffered by those who fought for peace, as well as their families. With ongoing conflicts around the world that can seem distant, Remembrance Day reminds us of the human cost of war and the importance of peace. For me, it’s a reminder never to take freedom for granted and to keep striving for a world where such sacrifices are no longer necessary.

Emily Egerton, Talent Acquisition Manager

A fond recollection I have of my grandma a number of years ago in Darlington,

I was visiting her on a day off; Just before 11am on the 11th of November, she was out in the street trying (and succeeding) to stop traffic. Imploring the local community to take remember and honour those that should be remembered. It worked and around dozen cars stopped and took part in the moment silence. I hope it had the impact of those 15 or so individuals, which it did on me.

Alex Brown, Client Development Manager

Having spent 30 years in the Regular Army, on completion in 2019 I transitioned into the Army Reserve where I currently still serve today, totalling 35 plus years of service, with many more years to go. Every day I wake up and count myself exceedingly fortunate and extremely thankful for all the inspiring leadership and great personnel I have served with past and present over the years. Having spent many years on Operation’s the many battlefields have led to the ultimate sacrifice for some, I have been unfortunate to have lost many of my own friends.

Standing on Parade over Remembrance is a special privilege, a meaning of gratitude and a feeling of pride to remember all the great service personnel that have paid the ultimate sacrifice and laid down their lives for their Country in conflict. A time to pay respect, reflect and remember the courage shown by my fallen friends and all those that have fallen in service for their Country.

Captain JB Simons, Royal Engineers and Engineer Surveyor

In recent years, I have been fortunate to be connected with our Veteran group. Learning from these experienced professionals has always been a special experience for me. Talking about Remembrance Day, for me it has become a super important date in the year to celebrate and honour. This day provides an opportunity to reflect on the conflicts and wars happening in the world. Unfortunately, it seems we have not fully learned from the lessons of the past, and people continue to be sacrificed. For me, commemorating Remembrance Day is crucial for this generation and future ones. It reinforces the importance of not repeating the same mistakes and working towards lasting peace for all. This day serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made, and the need to strive for a more peaceful world.

Eli Rizzo, HR Director.

In a time when the world seems to have lost its way and where the focus has shifted from who we are and what we can do, towards what we have and what we need; Remembrance Day remains a moment in time when being selfish really does feel out of place. It is a time to reflect on those who gave everything. It is a time to remember all those who have served, and those that continue to serve, to protect those freedoms that we seem to take for granted. I think it is best summed up in the toast you will hear in many military gatherings at this time:

“Let us not forget our fallen comrades, but remember them always, for they have earned our respect and admiration with their lives. We knew them, we remember them, and they will not be forgotten.”

Stuart Gilbert, Sales & Marketing Director