Remembrance Sunday commemorations at the National Memorial Arboretum

Earlier today, thousands of members of the public gathered at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to honour and remember the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces community on Remembrance Sunday.

A special Service of Remembrance was held at the base of the iconic Armed Forces Memorial, with a two-minute silence observed at 11am. In addition to the Act of Remembrance, the service included musical performances by The Band and Bugles of the Rifles, Arboretum Associate Partners Black Voices and participants from Talent in the Ranks, the Arboretum’s Armed Forces community artist development programme.

“Each year, Remembrance Sunday brings people together to pause, reflect and remember those who have given everything in service to our Nation, as well as recognising those serving today,” said Mark Ellis, National Memorial Arboretum Lead. “Earlier today, as I stood at the base of the iconic Armed Forces Memorial alongside thousands who had gathered to pay their respects, I was reminded of the courage, service and quiet selflessness behind every engraved name. People of all ages and backgrounds gathered to reflect on the cost of freedoms we often take for granted, ensuring these inspirational stories will endure for generations.”

Engraved with the names of over 16,000 service personnel, the Armed Forces Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum honours those who have been killed on duty, died in operational theatre, or been targeted by terrorists since the end of the Second World War. The Memorial gives recognition and thanks for those who have given their lives in service but is also particularly important for the many families and friends who have no grave to visit, or who remember those in graves in far-off places.  

On Tuesday, 11 November, HRH The Princess of Wales will be visiting the National Memorial Arboretum as it leads the Nation in commemorating Armistice Day with a Service of Remembrance on the Armed Forces Memorial. A two-minute silence will be observed at 11am, shortly followed by Her Royal Highness laying a wreath to honour and remember Armed Forces personnel who have served and made sacrifices for the Nation. The service will also feature music and poetry.

All public tickets to attend the service on the Armed Forces Memorial have now been allocated and parking for the morning is sold out. Visitors without a valid booking will not be able to gain entry to the Arboretum.

For more information about Armistice Day at the National Memorial Arboretum, visit: https://thenma.org.uk/armistice