November 2003

Remembrance Day 2003 in Jamaica

Wreaths laid at the foot of the Cenotaph at the National Heroes Circle.

On Sunday 09 November, 2003 (second Sunday in November) the Jamaica Defence Force observed Remembrance Day by the conducting of Remembrance Service at the Garrison Chapel in Up Park Camp and ceremonial parades at the National Heroes Circle and other monumental landmarks islandwide.

The timing for the service and all parades were carefully synchronized and the two minutes period of silence observed simultaneously at all locations preceded by the blowing of Last Post (signifying the dusk of a passing day) and concluded by the sounding of Reveille (signifying the dawn of a new day).

Capt (N) Annamunthodo (Right) representing the Chief of Staff  Jamaica Defence Force,  Lt Col A V Carter (Left) and other members of the Jamaica Defence Force at the Memorial Service held at the Garrision Chapel, Up Park Camp.

The Garrison Church service was presided over by Major Rev Dr Sirrano Kitson (Force Chaplain) and was attended by approximately 300 persons to include All Ranks and their families.   The sermon lasted for approximately 20 minutes and reminded the congregation of their purpose, making several analogies to the Lord Jesus Christ.   The message also encouraged serving members to be brave and emulate those whom we now honour.  

Finally the audience was reminded that “they shall not grow old as we that are left; age shall not weary them nor the years condemn.  
 

History

The early 19^th Century was marred with various major wars between nations to include World War One (WW1) and World War Two (WW2).   These wars resulted in the death of hundreds of thousands of people both military and civilians.  

On 11 November 1918, following WW1, the warring countries signed an armistice signifying the end of the first modern global conflict – WW1.   This essentially marked the cessation of the most destructive war in human annals and the resumption of peaceful relations among all nations.   The 11 November 1918 was therefore declared and acknowledged as Armistice Day in keeping with the signing of the truce.

The 1940s brought with it a period of turmoil and numerous warfares which eventually saw the advent of WW2.   Following the Second World War ‘Armistice Day’ was subsequently changed to ‘Remembrance Day’ as the former was no longer appropriate for a day which would commemorate all war dead. 

The Significance

It was established to solemnly remember the sacrifices of all those who fought so valiantly, on land, sea and in the air to preserve the heritage of freedom so that their efforts will never be forgotten.

 

The Cenotaph

Remembrance Day or Veterans Day (as it is called in the USA) is observed on a global basis on 11 November annually at approximately 11: 00 a.m by two minutes of silence in reverence as we reflect on those who died that others may live.   In addition, wreaths of poppies are laid at Cenotaphs or other Monuments/Landmarks on the second Sunday in November and Remembrance Services are conducted on the same day.   Paper poppies are also sold and worn in England, Canada and the Commonwealth, the proceeds of which are used to take care of the living war veterans.