Armistice with Ipswich schools - Christchurch Park
Yesterday was the day of national observance of Armistice Day. This is when we, and people around the world, take part in a two-minute silence to remember those who gave their life for their country. This year marks the 106th anniversary of the end of World War I. On the 11 November 1918, fighting was suspended on the Western Front, so Germany and the Allies could reach a peace agreement, and the guns fell silent at 11am. It's known as Armistice Day and that's why the period of silence takes place each year at 11 o'clock, on the 11th day of the 11th month. We had gone to visit Christchurch Park to see the Autumn colours, but had not realised that groups from local schools were gathering to celebrate Armistice Day at the local War Memorial. This is my record of the poignant ceremony The officials and the groups of young people start to gather around. The ceremony gets under way. The lowering of the flags - a tradition which has come to symbolize mourning, respect, and tribut...