'Terrible cost of conflict' remembered in services

A general view of the Cenotaph in Jersey. Veterans are seen from behind. They are wearing suits and saluting. Wreaths are laid at the bottom of the cenotaph.Image source, Rhys Thomas/BBC
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Veterans paying their respects at the Cenotaph in Jersey

  • Published

Services have been held across Jersey and Guernsey to mark Remembrance Sunday.

A two-minute silence was held at St Peter Port's war memorial at 11:00 GMT, followed by a short service and wreath laying.

In Jersey, a service of remembrance took place at the Cenotaph in St Helier.

In a message of remembrance, Jersey's Lieutenant Governor, Vice Adm Sir Jerry Kyd KBE, said: "We are so lucky to enjoy a free, safe and secure island life here in Jersey; but, of course, peace comes at a cost. A cost to so many brave men and women who stood for our values and for our way of life."

He added: "To honour them is not merely to recite their names or lay wreaths in the autumn weather.

"No, it's more of an opportunity, however fleeting, to thank them and reflect on the terrible cost of conflict. And, perhaps more importantly, a reminder to us all to live in a better way, a way that justifies their absence."

A general view of the service in Jersey. There are people in uniforms seen standing at attention. The streets are lined with people.Image source, Rhys Thomas/BBC
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The Bailiff of Jersey and others pay their respects

David Drage is in a green coat with a blue jacket shirt and tie underneath. He is wearing a hat and glasses and is smiling at the camera.Image source, Rhys Thomas/BBC
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David Drage said it was vital fallen soldiers were remembered

The St Helier service was also attended by the Bailiff of Jersey Robert MacRae and Chief Minister Deputy Lyndon Farnham.

A parade in Guernsey, organised by the Royal British Legion on the Royal Court's behalf, took place at 10:35 at the fire station.

The Bailiff of Guernsey invited "any ex-servicemen or women" to join in the parade.

Brian Biddle is seen smiling at the camera in a grey coat, white shirt and tie. He is wearing a cap and glasses. His medal is gold.Image source, Rhys Thomas/BBC
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Brian Biddle: "I'll always wear my liberation medal"

Resident David Drage, who was attending the Jersey service, said: "It's vital that we have an honourable remembrance of the people who fought and died for us all those years ago."

Brian Biddle, who lived during the islands' Occupation in World War Two, recalled his mother giving up food so he could eat as a child.

"I've got my liberation medal on and I'll always wear that," he said.

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