Remembrance Sunday holds deep significance across the country and around the Commonwealth and is observed on the second Sunday of November each year.
The origins of Remembrance Sunday can be traced back to Armistice Day – the day on which an agreement to end the fighting of the First World War was signed, as a prelude to peace negotiations. The ceasefire began at 11am on 11 November, 1918. Armistice Day was first observed on November 11, 1919, to honor the brave individuals who sacrificed their lives during World War I, with the saying “At the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month – we will remember them”.
At the heart of this commemoration lies the moment of silence, observed at 11 am on the day. This tradition, originally proposed by King George V, provides a poignant and collective moment of reflection to remember the fallen. It continued as an annual practice until the outbreak of World War II in 1939 when November 11th commemorations were temporarily replaced by observance on a nearby Sunday.
Following World War II, the British government sought to extend this tribute to those who had served in both world wars. In 1956, Armistice Day was officially replaced by Remembrance Sunday, firmly establishing it as the second Sunday of November. This year, it falls on November 11, and so returns to the same date as originally observed upon its inception.
Remembrance Sunday is now a wider opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life. This includes the Armed Forces, and their families, from Britain and the Commonwealth, as well as the vital role played by the emergency services and those who have lost their lives due to conflict or terrorism.
What does the poppy represent?
The red poppy flower serves as the enduring emblem of Remembrance Day. Its origins lie in the poppy flowers that flourished on the battlefields of World War I in Belgium and France, as famously described in the 1915 poem "In Flanders Fields" by Canadian soldier John McCrae. This powerful symbol was further embraced by the Royal British Legion, which sells red paper poppies to be worn in support during the Poppy Appeal. Wreaths made of poppies are also frequently placed at memorials, symbolising the perpetual gratitude and remembrance for those who gave their lives.
Remembrance Sunday is an opportunity for the UK to honor and remember all who have defended the nation's freedoms and way of life. This day holds a crucial role in ensuring that the sacrifices of those who served, and the profound impact of their service, are never forgotten.
In addition to the central observance, there are various local Remembrance Day events and opportunities for individuals to contribute to The Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal, whether by attending services or making donations through various means, including text, phone, or post. The enduring message of Remembrance Sunday is one of gratitude, respect, and an unwavering commitment to honoring the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
How to donate
For those who are unable to attend these events in person, you can express your support by contributing to The Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal here. There are various avenues for making a contribution, including:
By phone: Feel free to contact our affable fundraising support team at 0345 845 1945 to make a donation over the phone.
By text: To donate £2, simply text "POPPY2" to 70545. For a £5 donation, text "POPPY5" to 70545. To contribute £10, text "POPPY10" to 70545. (Please note that texts cost £2, £5, or £10, plus one standard network rate message; typically, approximately 97% of the donation amount goes directly to the Royal British Legion).
By post: Download a donation form and send it to the Royal British Legion, Supporter Care, Haig House, 199 High Borough Street, London SE1 1AA. Your contribution will play a crucial role in honoring the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.