Recently I read the poem, “Where the Scarlet Poppies Grow” and laid a wreath on behalf of the community at the Royal British Legion’s Dover branch Centenary Service at St Marys in Castro at Dover Castle on Saturday 11 September 2021. The service was dedicated to the work of the Royal British Legion in helping serving and former soldiers and their families. Starting from serving the veterans of the First World War to the men and women of our Armed Forces today.
The service was very well attended and included the Mayors of Dover and Deal, as well as the branch chairman Gary Gunner. Padre Malcolm Sawyer officiated.
The Royal British Legion does tremendous work, nationally and locally. It is a remarkable and enduring commitment to the servicemen and women of our country. The Dover White Cliffs branch was established in first founding year of the British Legion back in 1921, one hundred years ago. It continues to provide support and friendship to so many.
The poem “Where the scarlet poppies grow” is a moving reminder to the universal sacrifice made by rich and poor, town and countryfolk from across the whole of the United Kingdom to fight for their freedoms, and in doing so to gift us ours. It rightly tasks us with supporting the Poppy Appeal and the work of the British Legion in looking after the living heroes, as well as honouring those who have passed away.
We will all continue to honour the brave men and women who have fought to protect our rights and freedoms, and we must also continue to respect, thank and support everyone who steps forward and does their duty today and every day.