Remembrance Sunday Goes Ahead with Social Distancing
This year’s National Service of Remembrance at London’s Cenotaph, along with hundreds of local events nationwide, will still take place—outside and following strict social distancing rules.
How You Can Join In from Home
- Share family histories, personal stories, and messages of remembrance online using #WeWillRememberThem.
- Post a tribute on the Royal British Legion’s virtual Field of Remembrance or the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s Wall of Remembrance.
- Download children’s remembrance templates to colour and display at home with special educational resources.
- Ancestry is offering free access to over 1 billion UK wartime records this weekend—dig up your family’s wartime stories.
- Watch Premier League Academy players interview WWII veterans who were ex-professional footballers. Teachers can use these films as classroom resources on the Big Ideas website.
- Write a letter to a veteran or current service personnel via the Royal British Legion.
Top Brass Give Their Say on Remembrance
Prime Minister Boris Johnson: “We come together every November to commemorate the servicemen and women from Britain and the Commonwealth who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. In this time of adversity, no virus can stop us from honouring their memory, especially after the 75th anniversary of victory in the Second World War. Our tributes matter now more than ever.”
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden: “Remembrance Sunday is a vital day to thank those who made the ultimate sacrifice. This year’s service looks different, but please get involved safely from home—watch on TV, research your family history, and keep safe.”
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace: “Many on parade have already been fighting coronavirus, and more will do so in the weeks ahead. Their selflessness is outstanding. Though remembrance looks different this year, our respect and commitment remain unwavering.”
Minister for Defence People and Veterans Johnny Mercer: “While commemorations are different, COVID won’t stop us remembering the huge sacrifices made defending our country. I urge everyone to join in the creative ways we’re expressing thanks this year.”
150 Personnel Honour the Fallen at London Cenotaph
About 150 socially distanced servicemen and women from the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force will march at the Cenotaph, paying tribute to those who came before them. Traditional music will be performed, including the iconic Last Post by Royal Marines Buglers.
