Prince William Calls on Youth to Wear Red Poppies this Armistice Day to Honor Troops

Prince William will deliver a video message to youth across the UK for Armistice Day. His address encourages young people to wear red poppies to honor military personnel. The message will air during the Royal British Legion’s virtual Remembrance Assembly.

Significance of Armistice Day

On Armistice Day, William will emphasize that remembrance is for everyone. He believes this day is essential for reflection and paying tribute to those who served. William states:

• “When we remember, we connect with service in a personal way.”
• “Remembrance teaches us empathy, resilience, and responsibility.”

He encourages youth to express gratitude for veterans and current military members through acts of remembrance.

Personal Connections with Military Service

Drawing from his own military experience, Prince William recognizes the dedication and duty of the armed forces. He notes the importance of acknowledging both past and present service members. His message will highlight that:

• Honoring service is a vital way to maintain safety.
• We must remember those who have gone and those still serving.

William’s message will also feature the personal stories of veterans during the online event. This will include testimonies from individuals such as:

• George Durrant, a 101-year-old veteran of the Intelligence Corps.
• Prince Albert Jacob, a 100-year-old RAF member who served in World War II.

Events and Ceremonies

Alongside Prince William’s message, the Princess of Wales will attend a remembrance service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. This service will commence at 10:45 AM and include a two-minute silence at 11 AM.

During the service, a poem titled “A Sonnet For Us All” will be read. This piece reflects the personal stories behind the memorials at the arboretum.

Post-Ceremony Activities

After the service, Princess Kate will view newly dedicated names on the Armed Forces Memorial and meet with attending veterans. Later, Prince William will join King Charles and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle for a reception honoring veterans from the Pacific theater in World War II, marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

These events underscore the ongoing commitment to remembering and honoring military service members, highlighting the importance of community participation in remembrance.