The British Embassy in Bahrain recently observed Remembrance Sunday with a Service of Remembrance at the embassy premises in Manama. The ceremony featured a wreath-laying ceremony to honor those who lost their lives in conflicts, both past and present. British Ambassador to Bahrain, Alastair Long, hosted the event, which was attended by various dignitaries, faith leaders, diplomats, schoolchildren, and members of the diplomatic and expatriate communities. A two-minute silence was observed to remember the sacrifices of servicemen and women, followed by a piper playing a lament to close the service.
Ambassador Long highlighted the global significance of Remembrance Day, acknowledging the symbolic importance of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, marking the end of the First World War. He also remembered the 80th anniversary of the Normandy D-Day landings, reflecting on the role they played in ending the Second World War. The event aimed to honor the fallen while advocating for peace in current conflicts around the world.
Lieutenant Colonel Simon Cole, Defence Attaché at the British Embassy, emphasized the importance of remembrance as a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by the British and Allied Armed Forces and their families. He referenced a poignant inscription from a war memorial in Kohima, India, reminding everyone to cherish the peace and freedom enjoyed today. The poppy, a symbol widely worn on Remembrance Day, was highlighted as a symbol of hope for peace and a reminder of those who fought for a better future.
The event also paid particular tribute to Bahraini soldiers who lost their lives at the Yemen-Saudi borders, while extending thoughts to ongoing conflicts in Israel, Gaza, and Lebanon. The British Embassy continues to support the Royal British Legion’s Remembrance campaign, honoring the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for peace and stability. The close ties between Bahrain and the UK were reaffirmed during the event, with Ambassador Long emphasizing the long-standing friendship between the two nations and their shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and stability in the face of global conflicts.
