Remembrance Sunday is held every year on the second Sunday of November (the nearest date to November 11) to mark the anniversary of the end of World War One.
Thought I would share a little story from this week (may not all be word for word)...
Walked past Sunderland memorial on Thursday and noticed all the stands were up ready for this year's service. There were a few vets all suited up in their colors and medals already, watching the lads make preparations. I was walking back up to the civic center were I had parked my car when one of them shouted over to me "excuse me young man" (nice to know I am still a young man!) "do you know what this monument is for?" I replied "Yes, lieutenant, Sir, it is a tribute to our glorious dead" to which he said "yes you're quite right but it also means a whole lot more than that...but before I continue I should correct you and say that I was a captain and not a lieutenant!"
I was a little embarrassed that I had apparently under-ranked the poor old bloke! I thought I was being clever by noticing his officer insignia.
He went on a bit and had me standing there for a good 10 minutes with a few genuinely interesting stories. He eventually explained that he had stopped me because I was young and not wearing a poppy (I was actually wearing a poppy wristband) and said that he fears for my generation and the future of his country.
His views were strong and heartfelt.
I thought I would ask you all what does 11.11.11 mean to you? What goes through your head when the clock hits 11?
Thought I would share a little story from this week (may not all be word for word)...
Walked past Sunderland memorial on Thursday and noticed all the stands were up ready for this year's service. There were a few vets all suited up in their colors and medals already, watching the lads make preparations. I was walking back up to the civic center were I had parked my car when one of them shouted over to me "excuse me young man" (nice to know I am still a young man!) "do you know what this monument is for?" I replied "Yes, lieutenant, Sir, it is a tribute to our glorious dead" to which he said "yes you're quite right but it also means a whole lot more than that...but before I continue I should correct you and say that I was a captain and not a lieutenant!"
I was a little embarrassed that I had apparently under-ranked the poor old bloke! I thought I was being clever by noticing his officer insignia.
He went on a bit and had me standing there for a good 10 minutes with a few genuinely interesting stories. He eventually explained that he had stopped me because I was young and not wearing a poppy (I was actually wearing a poppy wristband) and said that he fears for my generation and the future of his country.
His views were strong and heartfelt.
I thought I would ask you all what does 11.11.11 mean to you? What goes through your head when the clock hits 11?
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