We shall remember them – across Dumfries and Galloway

Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day will be observed across Dumfries and Galloway with services, parades, and wreath-laying ceremonies at 97 war memorials in the region. The poignant events will take place either on Sunday, November 10 or on Armistice Day, Monday, November 11, with flags flying at half-mast at all main council buildings from November 8 to November 12. Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE, the Armed Forces Champion for Dumfries and Galloway Council, highlighted the importance of remembering and honouring the sacrifices made by those who defended freedoms and protected way of life. These events aim to pay tribute to veterans, Armed Forces personnel, emergency services, and all those affected by conflicts and terrorism.

Services at worship places and war memorials will provide an opportunity for the public, veterans, civic leaders, and organizations to pay respects to those who lost their lives in World Wars and subsequent conflicts. Royal British Legion Scotland branches, community councils, and groups will organize many of these services, observing a national two minutes silence at 11am. Dumfries and Galloway Council representatives will lay wreaths at all war memorials in the region, including those in Dumfries, Annan, and Lockerbie.

The commemorations will include individuals from Dumfries and Galloway’s Ukrainian, Syrian, and Afghanistan Resettlement Schemes laying wreaths in various locations. Public commemorations will be led by Legion Scotland branch members, veterans, and Armed Forces personnel at Dumfries War Memorial and Maxwelltown War Memorial. Additionally, services in St John’s Church in Dumfries and wreath-laying ceremonies in Annan and Lockerbie will honor the fallen.

On Armistice Day, the agreement that ended World War I, wreaths will also be laid at all war memorials in the region. The emphasis is on uniting communities to support veterans and armed forces while building respect and dignity. Councillor Malcolm Johnstone, Convener of Dumfries and Galloway Council, stressed the importance of coming together to honor those who serve and protect.

In the midst of ongoing conflicts around the world, these commemorative events serve as reminders of the sacrifices made for freedom and peace. As we pause to reflect on the bravery and dedication of those who fought for our way of life, let us not forget the importance of unity and remembrance in our communities.

Insights: It is crucial to recognise and honour the sacrifices made by those who have served and defended our freedoms. Remembrance events bring communities together to pay tribute to veterans, Armed Forces personnel, and all those affected by conflicts. By actively participating in these ceremonies, we show our collective support and gratitude for those who have served and protected us.