New Romney Remembers

Published: 14 November 2023

Thank you to all who took part or attended the Royal British Legion Service of Remembrance in the town on Sunday. It was well attended, and a moving service.

 Read on for the Mayor's address and photographs.

The Right Worshipful the Mayor of New Romney's address in the service is as follows:

" Deputy-Lieutenant of Kent, distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen,

 I stand before you today on this solemn occasion of Remembrance Sunday. We gather here to pay our heartfelt respects to the brave men and women who sacrificed their lives in the service of our country. It is an honour and a privilege to welcome you all to this wonderful church, where we come together as a community to remember, reflect, and honour their memory.

As we stand here today, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by countless individuals who answered the call of duty, leaving their families, homes, and comforts to defend the values we hold dear. Their courage, commitment, and selflessness in the face of adversity are qualities that inspire us all.

As we gather here on this Remembrance Sunday, it is crucial that we reflect not only on the sacrifices made in past conflicts but also on those being made in current and recent conflicts around the world. While we pay our respects to the heroes of the past, we must also acknowledge the challenges and complexities of the present.

Today, our thoughts and prayers extend to the brave men and women who are serving in the armed forces, often in dangerous and demanding conditions. They carry the torch of duty, honour, and sacrifice, just as their predecessors did in the World Wars, Korea, Falklands, Iraq, Afghanistan, and other conflicts.

We must remember the soldiers, sailors, airmen, and women who, at this very moment, are stationed far from home, separated from their families, and confronting the harsh realities of conflict zones. Their courage and resilience are a testament to the enduring values of service and selflessness.

We also remember the innocent civilians who are caught in the crossfire of these conflicts. They suffer the most profound hardships, enduring the loss of loved ones, displacement from their homes, and the destruction of their communities. Their resilience and strength are awe-inspiring, and we must never forget their plight.

On this Remembrance Sunday, let us not only remember the past but also dedicate ourselves to a future where peace is the ultimate legacy that we pass on to the generations to come.

In this historic and hallowed place of worship, we are surrounded by the echoes of generations past, who too gathered here to remember and honour those who gave their all. St. Nicholas Church has been a symbol of faith, hope, and unity for our community for centuries, and today, it serves as a poignant backdrop for our collective remembrance.

Today, we also remember the families who endured the pain of separation, the uncertainty of war, and the loss of loved ones. Their resilience and support played an equally vital role in our nation's history, and we stand with them in solidarity, offering our gratitude and support.

Remembrance Sunday is a time for us to reflect not only on the past but also on the future. It is a time to reaffirm our commitment to peace, unity, and understanding among all nations. As we remember the horrors of war, let us also pledge to work tirelessly for a world where conflict is resolved through dialogue, compassion, and cooperation.

In this digital age, where the world can seem more divided than ever, let us use this occasion to strengthen our sense of community and shared responsibility. Let us reach out to those in need, foster understanding among different cultures and backgrounds, and ensure that the sacrifices of the past guide us toward a brighter and more peaceful future.

Today, we shall observe a two-minute silence, a moment to bow our heads in solemn remembrance of all those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Let us remember their names, their faces, and the stories of their lives. Let us honour their memory by striving for a world where such sacrifices are no longer necessary.

In closing, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all of you for being here today. Your presence is a testament to the enduring spirit of remembrance and the importance of passing on the lessons of history to future generations. Let us leave this revered place with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to honouring the past and building a better, more peaceful future.

Thank you and may the memory of those we remember today forever inspire us to work for a world where peace and unity prevail."

Cllr John Rivers

Mayor

New Romney Town Council

12-11-23