Honouring Heroes: Dunstable’s Remembrance Day Tribute
On Sunday 10 November, the town of Dunstable came together to honour the town’s fallen heroes at the annual Remembrance Day Parade and Service.
The parade, which commenced at 10.30 am, departed from Grove House Gardens and made its way through the town centre to Priory Gardens, led by the Salvation Army band. A solemn wreath-laying ceremony was held at the War Memorial, followed by a poignant service at Priory Church.
Hundreds of residents, dignitaries, elected officials, uniformed personnel, and community groups gathered to pay their respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Following the Last Post. two minutes of silence were observed. The Reveille then signalled the end of the silence.
Paul Hodson, Chief Executive and Town Clerk of Dunstable Town Council, delivered the Exhortation, followed by the Kohima Epitaph read by Cllr. Peter Hollick. Deputy Lieutenant Cynthia Gresham represented the Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire in laying the first wreath, followed by Cllr Louise O’Riordan, Town Mayor of Dunstable, Councillor Gareth Mackey the Chair of Central Bedfordshire Council, and MP Alex Mayer, joined by veterans, Armed Forces organisations, and school pupils.
The Reverend Rachel Phillips concluded the War Memorial ceremony with prayers and a blessing, inviting all attendees to the inter-denominational service at Priory Church. The church was full; a credit to the town’s ongoing support for Remembrance Sunday.
On Armistice Day, Monday 11 November, a 2 minutes silence was observed at 11 am following the playing of the last post by John Ravenor. School pupils and members of the public joined with local dignitaries.
This year’s Remembrance Day events in Dunstable were a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals to protect our freedoms. The town’s commitment to honouring its fallen heroes continues to inspire and unite the community.
