On the 10 November, 1324 (Hawker Blackburn) Squadron joined with organisations including the Yorkshire Ambulance Service, Elloughton-cum-Brough Scout Group, and the Army Cadets of Brough Detachment for the first inclusive Ceremony of Remembrance.
The event, which was attended by Mr Blacksell DL, a Deputy Lieutenant to His Majesty the King’s personal representative for the East Riding of Yorkshire, saw the squadron lead a record-breaking parade of more than 100 young adults and volunteer staff as they marched through the town of Brough and took their place at the memorial, joined by spectators of all ages from the local community.
The Act of Remembrance, which is secular so as to be inclusive of all, is typically found incorporated within a religious Christian service in the UK.
Eager to ensure everyone was able to take part in every aspect of the ceremony, Officer Commanding 1324 Squadron, Flight Lieutenant Luke Clifford-Roper-Smith was proud to lead colleagues through the first truly inclusive Ceremony of Remembrance, supported by youth representatives from each of the community organisations present.
Speaking of the importance of ensuring the inclusion of all in order to safeguard Remembrance Day for future generations, Flight Lieutenant Luke Clifford-Roper-Smith said:
“With 68% of young people aged 18-24 declaring themselves non-religious as of 2021, it’s more important than ever that we ensure we honour the secular roots of the Act of Remembrance and learn to communicate the broader subject of Remembrance in a language that is relatable to all British citizens.
“I’m immensely proud to have been working with my colleagues in the other inclusive youth organisations to make sure we walk the walk on making our volunteers, young adults, and wider community feel truly welcome in everything we do.
“The Act of Remembrance belongs to us all, and so must be inclusive of everyone if we want this important occasion to resonate with future generations.”
Flight Lieutenant Luke Clifford-Roper-Smith
Officer Commanding 1324 (Hawker Blackburn) Squadron
Initially unsure of the format an inclusive Ceremony of Remembrance would take, parents and members of the public came forward to share how moved they were:
“It felt so personal and it was great to see so many people coming together. My son and I have differing beliefs and so being able to participate fully in the same event felt special.
“All the cadets did such a fantastic job with their ceremonial drill and music.”
Ms Pearson, parent of an Air Cadet
The squadron and fellow youth organisations wish to thank Mr Peter Melling of the Humber Business Park and Mr Carl Gillyon of East Riding of Yorkshire Council for their continued support of this annual event.