Remembrance Day

Each year in November, the United Kingdom remembers the British men and women who gave their lives in the two World Wars and other subsequent armed conflicts. For this reason, the 11th of November is known as Armistice Day, Remembrance Day, Remembrance Sunday or Poppy Day. The Field Poppy is a red flower that used to germinate and grow in the central European battlefields and, since then, it has been taken as the symbol for the fallen at war.

During the First World War, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the Armistice was signed after more than four years of continuous deadly warfare. In many parts of the world, most schools, factories, shops, offices, public buildings etc. grant a two-minute silence at 11:00 am on 11th November. Traditionally, special events, church services and many military parades to honour the fallen are held throughout the UK on the second Sunday of November, which is the nearest Sunday to the 11th day.

Events and celebrations like this consolidate and strengthen the identity, unity and the historical heritage of the country and give honour to the millions of patriots who fought for a better world. It also teaches children about the miseries and sacrifice undergone by a whole nation in order to achieve freedom and welfare.

This year, Remembrance Sunday is held on the 10th of November, 2013.