Words from Russell – Observing Remembrance Day on 11 November 2023

The guns fell silent on the Western Front at the end of the First World War more than 100 years ago, at 11am on 11 November 1918. But as conflicts rage around the world these many years later, we know that peace is fragile. It’s more important than ever to commemorate those who serve, have served and those who have died in all wars and peacekeeping operations.

Tomorrow, Western Health will lower our flags to half-mast and at 11am, we will pay our respects with a minute’s silence and then the ode to the fallen will be read out: 

They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old: 

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. 

At the going down of the sun and in the morning, 

We will remember them. 

Lest we forget. 

Observing a minute’s silence and listening to the mournful sounds of ‘The Last Call’ can provide a quiet moment to acknowledge the devastating toll of war.  

The Shrine of Remembrance is holding its Remembrance Day service tomorrow morning, which will also be available via livestream.