100 Years of Remembrance
2021 marks the centenary of the Royal British Legion
November is a time of reflection for many, as people gather to remember those who have given their lives for their country in war. It is a time to show respect and give thanks to those that have served, or are still serving, in the armed forces. ‘For 100 years the Royal British Legion has been helping serving and ex-serving personnel and their families. From those who served in the First World War to the men and women of our Armed Forces today, we believe no-one should suffer for having served others.’
Since 1921, the county’s largest Armed Forces charity has been helping to give support to members of the Armed Forces and their families after one day of service and continuing long after service is over.
The poppy, worn by millions as a symbol of remembrance, is a flower of notable resilience, which flourished in the aftermath of the chaos and destruction brought on by WWI. It was a striking image in what was an otherwise bleak landscape.
Every year more than 35 million paper poppies are made to raise vital funds, at the Lady Haig Factory, Edinburgh, the original Poppy Factory in Richmond and much closer to home, at the Royal British Legion’s automated production line in Aylesford, Kent.
The red poppy is a well-known and well-established national symbol of remembrance and hope for a peaceful future, which is now, more than ever of crucial importance. Which is why, in the centenary year, the Legion are asking everyone to take part in the 11/11 challenge. Inspired by the 11th day of the 11th month, you can take on the challenge in whatever way suits you, from baking 11 cupcakes to knitting 11 poppies or running up 11 flights of stairs to swimming 11 lengths.
