Jersey remembers its fallen heroes

Sunday 08 November 2020

Jersey is remembering its fallen soldiers today, as services take place around the island to mark Remembrance Day.

The Annual Remembrance Day Service and Parade at the St. Helier Cenotaph will this year be taking place as an invite-only, closed event due to covid restrictions.

Attendees will include the Lieutanant-Governor Sir Stephen Dalton, Bailiff Timothy Le Cocq, and Deputy Chief Minister Senator Lyndon Farnham.

The Dean of Jersey, Mike Keirle will deliver a service following the laying of the wreaths.  

Pictured: Poppies have been sold from in a pop-up shop in the old Beghins store this year.

Two closed ceremonies will also be held for Jersey Joint Services Veterans Association at the Royal Square and The Royal British Legion Bikers at the Weighbridge.

For the island as a whole, two-minute silences will be observed both today and on Armistice Day at 11:00. Any individuals who cannot lay their wreaths as part of official ceremonies will be able to lay wreaths at any time between 14:00 today until 09:30 on Wednesday. 

In addition, animal charity Murphy’s Army have launched their Purple Poppy campaign, which encourages the public to remember the animals lost in Service. 

They will be selling enamel badges, crochet poppies, as well as poppies for dog collars or horse bridles.

Pictured: Murphy's Army are commemorating the animals lost in service.

“We know that Islanders are understandably focused on the many changes we have all had to make to our lives since March,” said Lindsay Edwards-Thatcher, who has been at the forefront of the campaign. 

“Our hope though is that just a little of their time might be given to a small show of support for the sacrifice made by animals in the many spheres of service over the years.  

“The campaign by Murphy’s Army Purple Poppy appeal is a simple but effective way of bringing this vital element of Remembrance to the attention of everyone.”