2006

Memorial Gates Commemorative Ceremony

Recognising the enormous contribution made in both World Wars by the people of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Africa and the Caribbean

London UK – The Memorial Gates Commemorative Committee this morning held its fourth annual wreath laying ceremony at the Memorial Gates on Constitution Hill.

A moving service was led by The Bishop of London, Richard Chartres, who addressed the congregation of 250 people and spoke poignantly about the importance of remembrance and reflection at this time of year.

This colourful annual event is unique in bringing together people from all of the Armed Forces and of all ages, nationalities and faiths in remembrance and celebration. It pays tribute to the huge contribution made by the five million men and women from the Indian subcontinent, Africa and the Caribbean who volunteered to serve with the British Armed Forces during the First and Second World Wars.

The High Commissioners of India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Nepal and Jamaica and the Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan were among those who laid wreaths and paid their respects. Also in attendance were Field Marshal Sir John Chapple GCB CBE DL, who laid a wreath on behalf of the Brigade of Gurkhas and HRH the Prince of Wales; Major Christopher Steele of the Army Benevolent Fund; Lance Corporal Johnson Beharry VC – currently the youngest living recipient of the Victoria Cross; The Rt Hon Adam Ingram MP, Minister of Armed Forces; Ranford Smith, Deputy Secretary General of the Commonwealth; and The Rt Hon Paul Boateng, the British High Commissioner in South Africa, as well as veterans and cadets.

Lord Karan Bilimoria CBE DL, Chairman of the Memorial Gates Committee, said, "To the brave soldiers who gave their tomorrow for our today, and to the men and women of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Africa and the Caribbean, whose sacrifice and courage is an eternal example and inspiration of strength, of nobility, and of imperishable virtue: We salute you. We will never forget you. We thank you.”

Baroness Shreela Flather, JP DL, Patron of the Memorial Gates Trust added, “It is so important for us to continue to show our appreciation for the invaluable contribution made by people from the Indian subcontinent, Africa and the Caribbean in the two World Wars. This is a tremendously special and unique occasion when people from all different backgrounds and communities come together.”