Ambassadors, government officials, war veterans, diplomats, and other dignitaries came together yesterday as they commemorated Remembrance Day, a time to remember the lives lost during World War I (1914-1918).
Held at Himawari Phnom Penh, the ceremony was attended by Jacques Pellet, French Ambassador to Cambodia, BritCham’s Chairman, Martin McCarthy, Andrew Tay, Himawari’s Director, representatives from the Singapore Embassy, Australian Embassy, US Defence Associate, British Armed Forces, and others.
The ceremony is intended to pay tribute to members of the armed forces who have died while serving.
Remembrance Day commemorates when the Armistice that ended World War I came into effect at the eleventh hour of the eleventh month in 1918, a conflict that took the lives of more than 21 million soldiers and civilians.
Held annually in November, this year’s event was organised collaboratively by the British Embassy in Phnom Penh, the British Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia (BritCham), St John Phnom Penh, and the Phnom Penh Music Association (PPMA).
Marc Thayre, Charge d’affaires of the British Embassy in Phnom Penh, addressed the importance of the occasion, stating it’s a day to remember the loss of lives during war.
“Today is a special day in the British and Commonwealth calendar,” said Thayre. “It is a day when we gather, pay our respects, and remember those that fought and died on the battlefield, at sea and in the air.”
“It was 105 years ago today at Buckingham Palace that King George V held a banquet for the President of the French Republic that Remembrance Sunday commemoration was held,” he added.
He also emphasised the significance of Remembrance Day for younger generations, highlighting how it serves as an important opportunity for them to learn about the sacrifices made by those who came before them.
By understanding the history and the bravery of past heroes, young people can appreciate the value of peace and the importance of remembrance in shaping a better future.
“As I grew older, we learnt about the horrors of conflicts, but it was by coming to Remembrance Day year after year that I actually began to see the brave servicemen and women and the value they bestow,” said Marc. “Every year we welcome more and more children. Whilst the children here today may not understand why they are here beyond some cakes, they will begin to understand the meaning of selflessness, courage, and dedication, virtues displayed by veterans and those fallen in conflicts.”
The ceremony started with the singing of the hymn “I Vow to Thee, My Country.” This British patriotic hymn is often sung at memorial services.
It was followed by the Prayer for Peace led by Corps Chaplain Sergeant Tiv Linat of St. John Phnom Penh.
A two-minute silence was followed by the reading of “Lest We Forget”.
“They shall grow old, as we that are left grow old; age shall not weary them nor the years condemn; we shall remember them,” it said.
