This morning, the whole of North Leamington School came together outside in the school courtyard for a Remembrance Service.
The service saw approximately 1,500 students and staff congregate as a whole school to reflect, contemplate and remember the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community from Britain and the Commonwealth along with young people from our school.
Head Teacher Mr Lowdell, opened the ceremony with an address to the school followed by a Remembrance poem read by Senior Student Leaders, Millie and Will. Year 11 student, Martin, played The Last Post on the euphonium before the whole school observed two-minute. Our cadet students then laid a wreath.
Mr Lowdell said I am so proud of our staff and students coming together to show their respect at this remembrance event every year. Today is a day of reflection and remembrance for those who fought in the great wars, as well as those who have given their lives in recent conflicts around the world. They each leave us with a legacy of courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to the cause of peace and freedom.
As we remember those who served in the two great wars, we also turn our hearts to those who have served—and continue to serve—in more recent conflicts. From the challenging landscapes of Afghanistan to the deserts of Iraq, the forests of Africa, and the towns and cities across Eastern Europe, our servicemen and women have answered the call to protect vulnerable populations, uphold democracy, and restore peace to war-torn regions.
These modern conflicts may feel different from those of the past, but they demand the same level of bravery and resilience from those who serve. Every deployment, every mission, brings new risks and sacrifices for our soldiers, sailors, and air personnel, who serve not only for the safety of our own nation but also for the safety of people around the world.
Let us also remember those who have returned from service bearing visible and invisible scars. They carry with them memories of conflict and loss, but they also carry stories of compassion, brotherhood, and resilience. For their bravery in the face of unimaginable hardship and their continued commitment to protect and serve, they deserve our deepest respect and gratitude.
As we reflect, let us hold in our hearts the families who have borne the weight of these sacrifices. The mothers, fathers, children, and loved ones left behind carry on with resilience and strength, supported by our communities, bound by shared loss and pride in the service of their loved ones. Please do take time to look at our own school plaque that lists the fallen of our community. It is a constant reminder that, in part, you have what you have today because of the efforts of previous generations.
On this day of remembrance, we pledge never to forget. We remember the fallen, who made the ultimate sacrifice; we honour the veterans who continue to serve in different ways; and we commit to supporting those currently on duty as they work to create a safer, more just world.
