The structure of Remembrance this year has had three distinct parts to it. The Westminster Field of Remembrance, which was opened by Her Majesty the Queen. The second weekend in November events, which include the Royal Albert Hall Festival, the Cenotaph Parade in Whitehall and Church Services throughout the country. And finally, today’s Armistice Memorial Service at the National Arboretum, which was attended by the Princess of Wales.
This three-legged-stool, which has developed over time in response to the needs of those who defended the Free World and their descendants, is part of Deep British Culture. Unfortunately, this is under threat from those who wish to “reinvent” the commemoration because they do not agree with concepts of loyalty and duty to one’s country. Their arguments stem from a naïve ideology that oversimplifies the complexities and realities of war. I am all for inclusion, especially to those who feel disenfranchised, but we should not dilute the military involvement and nor should we allow the ignorant to denigrate our way of life.
Rupert Wieloch 