We're "remember, remember"-ing the 5th of November. However, the 11th of November is also a big day for our memories in the UK and other Commonwealth countries: It's a version of the US' Memorial Day.
Remembrance Day is celebrated on the 11th; churches around the UK tend to focus the nearest Sunday on services dedicated to remembering and honouring victims of war. Our service this morning began ten minutes early so the full church could be in silence, along with many other churches across the world, "at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month" - when the Armistice with Germany went into effect, ending the hostilities of World War I.
Red poppies, flowers on graves, crosses in public gardens, etc. are all very common for a week or two on either side of Remembrance Day. This morning also saw a large Pipers' Processional on the Royal Mile with even more folks than usual in kilts. I believe a lot of army pipers were about.
Also at church: Scouts in their uniforms! 'Twas delightful to see the Girl Guides and Boy Guides all about.
November is Veteran's Day here in the U.S.A. I didn't think you had been gone so long that you would forget that!
ReplyDeleteIt is nice to know that others also remember those who gave so much for us.
granna
Good grief, you're right. Good point! I do certainly remember that, now that you mention it.
ReplyDeleteThe UK doesn't have a Memorial Day in addition...so here am I, blending holidays. It does certainly turn the UK Remembrance Day into a blend of Veteran's and Memorial Days, along with an element of "International Day of Peace" kind of services/meditations in some circles.