Mortimer Remembers

During the 11th, 12th and 13th November the people of Mortimer participated in several different memorial ceremonies.

On Friday 11th about 35 adults met quietly at the War Memorial for the two minutes' silence. The President of the local Royal British Legion, Air Vice Marshall Barry Newton spoke the famous exultation:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: 
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. 
At the going down of the sun and in the morning, 
We will remember them.

Followed by the words of the Kohima epitaph:

When you go home,
Tell them of us and say,
For your tomorrow,
We gave our today.

At noon on the same day residents and friends gathered at Windmill Court for another ceremony. The bugle calls were sounded and after the silence and the Standard was lowered, two wreaths were laid at the home-made memorial; one on behalf of the Residents and the other on behalf of the ex-Ghurka soldiers of Reading. Mrs. Rebecca Barker, Chairman of Stratfield Mortimer Parish Council, spoke movingly of the occasion and a pleasant discussion of local matters ensued. Over tea and cakes everyone had a chance to reminisce over old times.

On Saturday 12th November Legion members were out selling poppies in the village.

On Sunday 13th November about 400 people gathered in glorious sunshine at 11 a.m. at the War Memorial to observe the silence and lay wreaths and personal crosses. It was especially pleasing to see so many young people, in particular from the Scouts and Guides. The parade then proceeded to St. John's Church to continue the Remembrance Service.

This is the 90th year of the Royal British Legion and the work and service they provide is as necessary today as it was during the wars being remembered. We hope the sale of poppies brings in a record amount to continue the good work. If any one has relevant photographs they would like to share, please contact Branch Standard Bearer Bryon Ray on 01189 331349.