 |
The National Service of Remembrance
at the Cenotaph in Whitehall is a unique expression of
national homage devoted to the remembrance of those who
have given their lives in war. It was originally
conceived as a commemoration of the war dead of the
first World War but after the Second World War the scope
of the ceremony was extended to focus on the nation's
dead of both World Wars, and in 1980 it was widened once
again to extend the remembrance to all who have suffered
and died in conflict in the service of their country and
all those who mourn them.
The service at the Cenotaph is
framed to ensure that no-one is forgotten. The wreath
laid by The Queen and the other tributes placed on the
Cenotaph are dedicated to all who have suffered and died
in war. Members of the Cabinet, Opposition Party
leaders, former Prime Ministers and certain other
Ministers and the Mayor of London are invited to attend
the ceremony, along with representatives of the Armed
Forces, Merchant Air and Navy and Fishing Fleets, and
members of faith communities. High Commissioners from
Commonwealth countries also attend the ceremony and lay
wreaths at the Cenotaph.
|
D
