A national two-minute silence took place across the UK today as we marked Remembrance Sunday 2020.
The National Service of Remembrance at the Cenotaph in London, along with hundreds of local events across the country still took place this year by being held outside and in accordance with strict social distancing guidance.
Although the public were unable to attend at the Cenotaph, the national event was broadcast live across Sky, ITV and BBC One with the public invited to remember by staying at home to protect veterans and the NHS.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
“We come together every November to commemorate the servicemen and women from Britain and the Commonwealth who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.
In this time of adversity, no virus can stop us from honouring their memory, particularly when we have just celebrated the 75th anniversary of victory in the Second World War.
And in times of trial, our tributes matter even more. So let’s come together once again and remember those to whom we owe so much.”
Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said:
“Many of the men and women on parade today have already taken part in efforts to fight coronavirus and many more will do so in the weeks to come. I applaud their selflessness.
Whilst remembrance looks different this year, we have made extra efforts to demonstrate our undiminished respect for those who have gone before, and our firm commitment to the continued safety of the British people.”
Around 150 socially distanced personnel from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force were on parade at the Cenotaph, London, to honour the brave men and women that came before them. Musicians from all three services played traditional music for the service, including the Last Post played by Buglers of the Royal Marines.