King Charles III led the United Kingdom in a solemn two-minute silence on Remembrance Sunday in London, honoring those who have lost their lives in conflict.
On a stone-grey autumn morning, the King laid a wreath at the Cenotaph in Whitehall, the historic monument designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens.
The site, which translates to “empty tomb” in Greek, has served as a focal point for national mourning since its permanent stone version was opened by King George V in 1920. Now, 106 years later, his great-grandson continues the tradition of paying respect. In the same design but in stone, but it proved so popular with the public that it was replaced in 1920 with a permanent version.
The event drew 10,000 armed forces veterans who marched past the Cenotaph. This year, the parade included representatives from approximately 340 military and civilian groups, ranging from the Royal Naval Association and the Royal Marines Association to members of the Royal National Lifeboat Institute and Transport for London. Among those marching were families supporting veterans in wheelchairs and many using disability scooters. Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally led those gathered at the Cenotaph in prayer. This national Remembrance event has been held around the Cenotaph, for more than a century.
The number of surviving World War Two veterans continues to dwindle; only 12 took part in this year’s march, compared to 20 last year. Among them was 103-year-old Annie Duplock, who served in the Land Army starting in 1940. Reflecting on the occasion, she described it as a “very emotional day,” noting that it brings back poignant memories of those who did not return home. The oldest participant in the parade was aged 105. Having lied about her age, and worked on a farm in Leicestershire, she had joined the Land Army in 1940 as a 16-year-old. I feel very honoured to be taking part in the parade and to represent the Land Girls. Although a little apprehensive as I don’t quite know what to expect,” she said, i’m very excited. It will be lovely to be there and remember them. Including those who had no grave, and as a place to mourn for those families who might not be able to visit war cemeteries overseas, the monument was built as a focal point for honouring those who had fought and died in World War One.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham laid a wreath at the monument, marking his first attendance as the occupant of 10 Downing Street. He stated that the annual service provides an opportunity to reflect on the courage required to protect others. Additionally, he pledged efforts to address homelessness among veterans, aiming to ensure those sleeping rough are offered suitable accommodation before the Christmas period. The ceremony also saw a record number of former prime ministers in attendance, with nine present to lay wreaths. (Top left to bottom right) former Prime Ministers Rishi Sunak, Liz Truss, Boris Johnson, Theresa May, Lord Cameron, Gordon Brown, Sir Tony Blair and Sir John Major.
Political presence extended to the leader of Reform UK, Nigel Farage, who attended after his party secured enough MPs to qualify for a wreath-laying position alongside other major party leaders. Queen Camilla and the Princess of Wales observed the proceedings from a balcony at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. The Prince of Wales and the Princess Royal were also present, joining military leaders, diplomats, faith representatives, and senior politicians amidst large crowds lining Whitehall.
A blue and yellow Ukrainian flag remained visible on the roof of the Foreign Office, now frayed after four years, serving as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict and current security threats. As the first strike of Big Ben resonated across the area at 11:00 GMT, the bustling capital fell silent for two minutes before the playing of the Last Post, creating a rare moment of stillness.
Mark Atkinson, director general of the Royal British Legion, emphasized that the day is dedicated to paying tribute to all those who have served and sacrificed across generations. The Cenotaph itself, characterized by an austere, non-triumphalist design, was originally a temporary structure built in 1919 before becoming the enduring symbol it is today. In his own tribute, the King inscribed the words “In everlasting remembrance” upon the wreath he placed at the monument.
