War Veterans Mark Remembrance Day

War heroes in Sheffield have marked Remembrance Day with a series of events commemorating the 100th anniversary of the beginning of the First World War. The Lord Mayor of Sheffield, Peter Rippon, led a procession from the City Hall. The parade included ex-service men and women together with army units and representatives of uniformed organisations in the city. 

In Ecclesfield, locals and ex-service personnel alike lay wreaths of poppies at a war memorial monument. Speaking after the ceremony at the Royal British Legion club in the village, David Russell, the secretary of the club, said: “It’s something we do every this year, but obviously this year was extra significant, and you could see that from the turnout of the locals.” The legion club was full of characters from different battles the British have fought over the years, and many had some interesting stories to tell. 

Bill Downing, 90, was based in Palestine as a military policeman between 1945 and 1948. Reflecting on the toughness but togetherness of his time in the army, he said: “The situation was tough but we were all pals together. I saw some horrible things but I have fond memories of my pals.” Roy Wilkinson, 62, served in the army, and the Territorial Army between 1977 and 1986. He said: “Serving is a great experience. You learn to trust each other, rely on each other, you have fun with each other, and you stick with each other forever. I think it would be good for any young person to serve to learn the life skills that you do.” And, reflecting on the Remembrance Day parade, he said: “The parade consists of veterans, and locals, young and old - it was a wonderful occasion.”

FIRST PUBLISHED IN THE SHEFFIELD STAR, 10TH NOVEMBER, 2014