‘DIFFERENCES never outweigh what unites us’ – those were the sentiments of this year’s Bromsgrove Remembrance Sunday service, led by Rev Ray Khan from St John’s Church.
He spoke about how we are all joined in love – the kind of love that those who made the ultimate sacrifice made for our freedom today.
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And he talked about the long-standing understanding in the army that allows everyone to hold differing political and religious views but they are put aside for the values of the service. Those values include courage – both moral and physical, discipline, respect for others, integrity, loyalty and selfless commitment.
The moving address was part of the commemorations which began with a parade from the top end of the High Street to Crown Close.
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That featured representatives from a variety of organisations who took a salute from the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire at the Odd Fellows Memorial en route to Crown Close. At the back were a number of military vehicles.
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Thousands lined the town centre’s streets and then joined for the poignant service.
It began with The Exhortation before an impeccably marked two-minute silence and the Kohima Epitath.
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There was another impressive wreath-laying with more than 40 organisations taking part – from the armed forces, MP and political parties to community groups, such as the Lions, Rotary and Court Leet. Young people’s groups were also a key part of this year’s proceedings with the Scouts, Guides, Army Cadets and Boys Brigades among those paying tribute and remembering the fallen.
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Hymns on the day included I Vow to Thee My Country, O God, our help in ages past and Make me a channel of your peace.
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The commemorations concluded with the National Anthem.
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The town’s MP, Bradley Thomas, attending his first Remembrance Parade since being elected in July said: “I was very humbled by the scale the town comes out and take time to remember those who gave up so much for the freedom we enjoy today.
“Credit to everyone who organised today’s commemorations – it was so good to see how many organisations supported the event and not just civic ones. This shows the strength of the Bromsgrove community.”
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Rev Khan added: “I thought Bromsgrove did all those who served and gave their lives proud.
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“It was an amazing turn-out especially the number of young people who joined us today.”
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And Bromsgrove District Council leader, Coun Karen May, said: “I thought the whole thing was fantastic – it is great to see how the Bromsgrove community and its organisations come out to recognise the sacrifices made by so many over the year.”
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Last night around 300 people attended a Bromsgrove Remembers concert at Artrix which featured a variety of musical performances, speeches and more.
And tomorrow (Monday, November 11), just before 11am, everyone is welcome to gather at the Odd Fellows Memorial in Bromsgrove High Street for the annual Armistice Day commemoration.
Other Remembrance Sunday parades
PICTURE SPECIAL – Rubery and Catshill remembers the fallen
IN PICTURES – Wythall community turns out to pay its respects
