World War I was dubbed ‘the war to end all wars’ in the four years of conflict, the number of military and civilian casualties across the world stood at over 40 million. Of this number, there were around 20 million deaths, made up of 9.7 million military personnel and about 10 million civilians with over 21 million wounded. 40,000 British men lost limbs in war.
In the Commonwealth States, Remembrance Day is observed as a day to remember and honour the sacrifices made by all those who have served our country, no matter the time
We use the day to reflect and pay tribute to the armed forces with events happening all over the world. It’s also an opportunity to raise money for armed forces members who have been injured because of war.
If you’re looking to get involved, you might be asking yourself what events for remembrance near me are happening. Perhaps you want to organise your own fundraising event or simply know a bit more about the importance of this day. Read on for everything you need to know about remembering our fallen heroes.
What Is Remembrance Day?
Remembrance Day, also called Armistice Day, is a memorial day recognised by the Commonwealth member states.
The first remembrance day started at the end of the First World War as a way to honour armed forces members who died in the line of duty. The tradition then was inaugurated by King George V in 1919.
When Is Remembrance Day?
There are two important dates to remember here, Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday. Remembrance Day is always on the 11th of November.
If you’re asking yourself the question, “when is remembrance Sunday?”, it can be a little confusing as the date changes each year. It happens on the second Sunday of November. This is the Sunday before the 11th of November and is the day when the national memorial ceremony happens in London.
Remembrance Day happens throughout the Commonwealth, although there is another UK-specific memorial day dedicated to the armed forces. Armed Forces Day happens on June 25th, it commemorates the service of men and women in the British Armed Forces. It started in 2006 and was previously called UK Veterans Day, then the name changed to Armed Forces Day in 2009.
Armistice Day Vs Remembrance Day
The word ‘armistice’ is Latin for to stand (still) arms. When this memorial day first started it was referred to as Armistice Day. The name changed to Remembrance Day after World War II.
Whichever name you choose, the ethos of Remembrance Day UK is still the same. It’s a day to remember those who sacrificed their lives during times of war.
Why Do We Remember on November 11th?
The agreement was signed to end the conflict. The Armistice of the First World War started at 11 am on 11 November 1918.
This time and date are when the First World War and the reason why we mark Armistice Day with a Two Minute Silence at 11 am on the 11th day of the 11th month.
The Cenotaph Meaning
Remembrance Day in the UK focuses its event around the Cenotaph in London. The word means 'empty tomb' and it symbolises the innumerable losses suffered during the First World War. It's dedicated to 'The Glorious Dead’.
The Sunday remembrance day will see processions along the road. This is made up of current and ex-servicemen and women and marching bands. Members of the Royal Family also attend the event along with other important people like politicians. They eventually lay poppy wreaths on the Cenotaph to pay respects to the fallen.
If you want to take part in Remembrance Sunday in London, then you’ll need to get there early. The annual National Service of Remembrance is held in the streets surrounding the Cenotaph on Whitehall. They do get very busy.
Poppies and Remembrance Day
The poppy has become synonymous with Remembrance Day, but why?
During the First World War, poppies were a common sight, especially for those fighting on the Western Front. Fields of these pretty red flowers surrounded the lands where bloody battles were fought.
The association of poppies and war casualties started with a poem. Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was a Canadian artillery unit brigade surgeon. He wrote the poem during the spring of 1915 called ‘In Flanders Fields’ which was inspired by the horrific war scenes he saw amongst the fields of poppies.
Today, the bright red poppy is a symbol of remembrance and hope. It hopes for a positive future as well as a peaceful world.
In the weeks leading up to Remembrance Day, you will see poppies for sale. These are sold by the Royal British Legion to raise money for people in the armed forces today. You will also notice newsreaders, politicians and the Royal Family and even your friends donning a small red poppy as a sign of respect.
What Type of Fundraising Event Can I Do for UK Remembrance Day?
Thre are numerous fun things you can do to help raise money for Remembrance Day, from holding cake sales, sponsored walks and of course the Remembrance Run.
You don’t have to be a world-class athlete to take part in this November run. You can take part with friends or family, and even walk the course. You might be anxious about taking part, which I natural, especially if you’re not a regular runner. In the weeks leading up to the event, set yourself small goals. Follow our top tips on how to train for the 11k run.
How to Train for 11K
If you’re quite new to fitness and worried about the 11k distance, then follow these great tips on how to train.
Train With a Friend
If you’re new to running it can be daunting to even manage 1k, let alone 11k. Sign up to run with a friend to encourage each other. This is also a great way to hold each other accountable when you’re feeling too tired or lack motivation.
Spread the Word
This works two-fold, the more people you tell, the more money you will raise. It also helps as having another kind of accountability, you won’t want to let people down when you see how many people are cheering you on, and how much money you’ve raised. So post it on social media, talk about it at work, and tell everyone.
Build Up Your Stamina
The best way to start is to start small. Try to plan at least a month in advance, even longer is better. Build yourself up gradually. Start with just 2k and a small burst of running and walk in between. Gradually increase your distance and bursts of running. Remember, you don’t have to be the fastest in the race and it doesn't matter if you have to walk.
Build Fitness Into Your Daily Routine
If you’re new to fitness, then do small things daily to start to build your stamina. Things like taking the stairs instead of an elevator, or walking to the shops instead of driving will all help you achieve your fitness goals and build your stamina.
Challenge Yourself
When was the last time you did something that pushed you mentally and physically? It’s good to get outside your comfort zone once in a while, so use the Remembrance Run as a way to challenge yourself. Keep a diary to track your progress and to see how far you’ve come. Set small goals and affirmations and keep these on Post-It notes around the house as a reminder to keep you on track.
How Do I Find Fundraising Events for Remembrance Near Me?
A great way to find out about events for remembering Sunday near you is to check local groups. You might have a local magazine, newspaper or notice board in the local library, community centres, church or leisure centre.
If you’re not finding anything there, then ask the question on Facebook and to friends you work with to find out what’s Remembrance Day events are happening near you.
It might be the case that there aren’t any planned events, which is a great opportunity to organise your own event and get involved that way. If you’re stuck for ideas on what to do, then search online for a whole range of great resources for Remembrance Day Sunday.
How Will You Mark Remembrance on November 11th
So, how will you be remembering this year? Whether you’re joining in with a pre-organised event or arranging your own Remembrance Day is certainly worth getting involved with.
If you’re wondering about events for remembrance near me, take a look at Blesma for regional and national fundraising events you can get involved with.
Contact us for more details about events happening near you as well as tips on organising your own event.
We can help
We are dedicated to assisting serving and ex-Service men and women who have suffered life-changing limb loss or the use of a limb, an eye or sight. We support these men and women in their communities throughout the UK. Click the link below to find out the different kinds of support we offer.
Get Support