Huntingdon & District Branch: Remembrance Parade 2011
On Sunday 13th November 2011, shipmates from Huntingdon & District mustered for the annual Remembrance Service at the Huntingdon War Memorial.
Although halfway though November, it was a glorious day with the sun shining brightly.
The parade comprised of representatives from the Armed Forces, Reserves, former services, Fire Brigade, and various cadet forces – to name but a few.
Once all the representatives were in place, the parade commander gave the order to march to Market Square. The RNA formed part of a veterans squad which also included members of the Royal Marines Association, British Legion, and Air Force Association.
Once all personnel were in position, the Mayor, representatives from the community, including the Commanding Officer from RAF Brampton/Wyton/Henlow took their places in front of the memorial. The service began with a hymn, followed by the Padre asking all attendees to think of what Remembrance Sunday means to us all, and as individuals. Then at the 11th hour, we fell silent and remembered those who had given up their lives for us in all conflicts since the First World War.
An excellent service, and one that I shall be proud to have attended in my first official parade as a member of the Royal Naval Association. On completion of the service, the parade were called to attention and the band took their position in order to lead the parade out of the town centre.
All the groups taking part in the parade were applauded by the crowds. I am not including photographs of the younger squads (Cadet forces, girls brigade etc) for security and privacy reasons; but, the young boys and girls did their parents proud, and appeared to enjoy taking part as much as the adults. Well done to them all.
A proud day for all who gave so much for our country, Lest we forget…
