‘Remembrance is an act of gratitude and declaration that we will not forget’
WHILE the period of Remembrance focuses people’s minds around the world on the sacrifice of those who fought and fell, the thoughts of many people locally, including myself, will be on those from Barnsley who made the ultimate sacrifice.
It may seem obvious to many of us why Remembrance is important, but there is always value in revisiting the core principles that underpin it.
In its essence, Remembrance is a fundamental pillar of our national character a binding force that connects us to previous generations, reminding us that the freedoms we enjoy today were secured through the selflessness and unwavering dedication of those who came before us.
It’s an act of gratitude, and a declaration that we will not forget the sacrifices made on our behalf.
Just as it was after the Armistice of 1918, every community has its own story of loss to tell, and our town is no exception.
In recent years, we’ve mourned the losses of Private Matthew Thornton of the Yorkshire Regiment, Marine David Marsh of the Royal Marines, and Captain Martin Driver of the Royal Anglian Regiment. Three courageous young men who answered the call, just like their forebears, but tragically didn’t return home.
Their sacrifice is woven into our town’s history, and their memory lives on through our collective acts of remembrance.
As we come together to honour their memory, we must reaffirm our commitment to the ideals they fought for: peace, freedom, and a better world for future generations.
The Festival of Remembrance at St Mary’s Church and the Remembrance Sunday service in front of the town hall are just two of many important events taking place across our community next week that do just this.
Whilst these events remember the fallen, in this period of Remembrance we must take a moment to reflect on those who continue to serve, both in our armed forces and here at home, ensuring the security and freedoms we often take for granted.
Their commitment, resilience, and dedication to duty are as vital today as they have ever been.
We must also reaffirm our unwavering commitment to supporting our veterans and their families, whose needs remain long after conflicts have ended. Just as they have served us, we must serve them – ensuring they receive the care, support, and respect they deserve.
Remembrance is a powerful reminder of the costs of conflict, and it is our shared responsibility to work tirelessly towards building a more peaceful and prosperous world for the generations to come.
In Barnsley, we will remember them. We will remember them.
