What is Remembrance Day and why do we celebrate it?

Exactly 84 years ago, on November 11th, 1918, the First World War came to an end when both sides agreed to stop fighting. This day has become symbolic around the world and now represents much more than the First World War. It is a day when people unify to pay their respects to people who have lost their lives to the atrocities of war.

As a symbol of remembrance and the hopes of a peaceful future, the poppy flower was adopted. This decision was made after the First World War. When the previously beautiful Western Front was destroyed by bombs and fighting, the land lay baron. This was until, through all the chaos, bright red Flanders poppies began to grow and bloom. Their resilience and the small glimmer of beauty amongst so much horror then became a global symbol.

On May 15th, 1921, the Royal British Legion was founded and the tradition of a two-minute silence on November 11th was adopted. As the symbol for remembrance poppies are sold and worn by millions every year, with proceeds going to the Royal British Legion, to support ex-soldiers and those which still serve.

To find out more about the Royal British Legion, how to donate, or how to show your support, visit here: https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-involved/ways-to-give/donate