Sunday, 13th November 2016
A day when we all remember those who died for us in World Wars and the poignancy of the occasion is palpable. One cannot help but be aware that all across the nation in towns, cities and villages this two minutes silence is being observed. This year marked the 100th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme and when one learns that over 19,000 men lost their lives on the very first day of the battle then this is indeed a reason to pause for thought.
Prior to our church service in St Mary's, I was privileged to review the members of 4th Military Intelligence Battalion with the Colonel Matt Jones and RSM Paul Inverarity together with Cadet Forces from Marlborough College, St John's and other assembled groups including the Scouts and Brownies.
At the appointed hour with military precision we marched to the Marlborough War Memorial behind the Phoenix Brass Band to observe the two minute silence and the laying of wreaths. With my fellow Councillors and the Colonel, we went to the High Walls to observe the march past and salute prior to joining the large congregation for the Service of Remembrance. This was conducted by the Rector of Marlborough, Canon Andrew Studdert-Kennedy and the sermon was preached by Rev. Dr Janneke Blokland.
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Friday, 11th November 2016
Always a solemn day where we reflect on those who gave their lives for us and a chance for us to pay them their due respect. I was joined on the steps of the Town Hall by Councillors including Councillor Alec Light, Chairman of the British Legion, my Chaplain, Dr Janneke Blokland, members of 4MI Battalion plus the Principal of St John's Academy with her Head Boy and Head Girl. Also in attendance were many students also from St John's. After the two minute silence had been observed, we processed to the War Memorial in London Road for the laying of our wreaths. Afterwards I visited, with Councillors Andrew Ross and Alec Light, those Commonwealth War Graves at our cemeteries where we placed posies of poppies on each of the graves.
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