The Territory will pay homage and respect to those who have sacrificed their lives in battle when it observes Remembrance Day on Sunday, November 11.

Residents are also being encouraged to support the Remembrance Day Service and Beacon Lighting activities. 

His Excellency the Governor, Augustus J. U. Jaspert said, “In the British Virgin Islands, we have peace and freedoms that should never be taken for granted.  Around the world, there are millions of soldiers, sailors, airmen, and women who lost their lives to protect us and to keep our freedoms.”

Governor Jaspert said that this is a poignant Remembrance Day since it is 100 years since the end of the First World War. The beacon lighting, he said, signals battle over, and the Commonwealth Beacon will be lit up across the world to signal the end of those horrific hostilities.

He added, “I've had the privilege to work alongside military personnel in my career. I have seen dedication, commitment and the knowledge. Knowing that at any time they could be called upon to take the ultimate sacrifice is something that we should honour and reflect on.”

The Remembrance Day Service and Beacon Lighting will be held at 4:30 p.m. at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium and will be hosted by Deputy Govenor, Mr. David D. Archer Jr.

Mr. Archer Jr. said veterans and other organisations including the police and the fire service will march from the entrance at the H. Lavity Stoutt College to the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium.             

He added, “There will be a programme where we honour the veterans who have served. Immediately following that, there will be a beacon lighting ceremony.”

The Remembrance Day tradition was started by servicemen as a tribute to their departed comrades to ensure that future generations never forget the suffering caused by the 1914 to 1919 World War. It is also a symbol of remembrance, compassion and caring for all victims of war.