Her Majesty The Queen Consort laid a personal tribute at the opening of the 94th Field of Remembrance.
More than 1,000 veterans gathered in the grounds of Westminster Abbey for the short ceremony on Thursday 10 November, observing a two-minute silence to remember all those who have lost their lives in service.
Her Majesty met members of the Abbey staff and representatives from The Poppy Factory, which has organised the Field of Remembrance since it began in 1928. Her Majesty The Queen Consort was escorted by our President, Surgeon Rear Admiral Lionel Jarvis, in reviewing thousands of Remembrance tributes placed in memory of fallen comrades and loved ones.
Around 70,000 crosses and other symbols, laid out in 308 plots according to regiment, unit or association, have been planted in the grass by volunteers. Before departure, Her Majesty was invited by the Dean of Westminster, The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, to review a plot honouring Queen Elizabeth II.
Deirdre Mills, Chief Executive of The Poppy Factory, said: “We are deeply honoured to have Her Majesty The Queen Consort attend the 94th Field of Remembrance, demonstrating once again the importance of acknowledging the sacrifice of all those who have given their lives for others.
“Her Majesty’s commitment to the ex-Forces community has been unwavering. We are grateful to Her Majesty The Queen Consort for her continued support as we look to help hundreds more veterans overcome barriers on their journey towards employment.”
At the opening ceremony, prayers were led by the Dean of Westminster The Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle and The Reverend Dr James Hawkey. Surgeon Rear Admiral Lionel Jarvis invited Her Majesty to lay a Cross of Remembrance followed by the Last Post, the Exhortation to Remembrance, the two-minute silence and Reveille.
The Field of Remembrance will remain open to public from Friday 11 November to Sunday 20 November, from 9am to 6pm. Opening times may vary. Anyone who wishes to can plant a tribute carrying a personal message in memory of those who have lost their lives in the service of others.
