National Memorial Arboretum leads the Nation in commemorating Armistice Day

HRH The Princess of Wales attended the Armistice Day Service of Remembrance on the Armed Forces Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum

Today, the National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire, led the Nation in commemorating Armistice Day with a Service of Remembrance on the iconic Armed Forces Memorial. Attended by HRH The Princess of Wales, the service featured an Act of Remembrance, with a two-minute silence at 11am followed by wreath laying.

“Armistice Day is a moment for us all to pause and reflect on the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of those who have served our Nation, and to recognise those who continue to protect our freedoms today,” said Philippa Rawlinson, Director of the National Memorial Arboretum. “Today’s service at the National Memorial Arboretum was a powerful reminder that Remembrance is not just about looking back to events of the First and Second World Wars but also remembering the contributions of those who have served and made sacrifices more recently, including in Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, and Iraq. We must continue to pass the baton of Remembrance to future generations, preserving these incredible stories so they endure and inspire for years to come.”

Arji Manuelpillai, the Arboretum’s Poet in Residence, recited “A Sonnet For Us All”, a specially commissioned poem reflecting themes close to the heart of The Princess of Wales

As part of proceedings, Arji Manuelpillai, the Arboretum’s Poet in Residence, recited “A Sonnet For Us All”. This specially commissioned poem reflected the importance of personal connections, experiences and bonds that are formed through military service; themes which are particularly close to The Princess’ heart.

The service also included musical performances by members of Talent in the Ranks, the Arboretum’s artist development programme for members of the Armed Forces community, and all-female a cappella quintet Black Voices, associate partners of the Arboretum.

Following the service, The Princess of Wales spoke with Hayley Lawrence, RAMC Veteran and Steve Cartwright, Royal Engineer Veteran and RBL Beneficiary

Once the service had concluded, Her Royal Highness was invited to view newly dedicated names on the Armed Forces Memorial before meeting veterans and serving personnel in attendance at the service.

The Princess of Wales paused to speak with members of the public in Heroes’ Square before touring the National Memorial Arboretum’s Remembrance Centre

Her Royal Highness was introduced to a group of students whose parents are serving personnel currently on deployment. The Princess then met with a group of World War II veterans who served in Europe and the Far East. These introductions were made in “Letters from the Frontline – Words, War and Victory”, a special exhibition produced in partnership with BBC radio stations across the Midlands that shares the changing experiences and emotions of Armed Forces Personnel and their families during 1945, throughout the final months of the Second World War, through a selection of moving correspondence.

“The genuine warmth shown by HRH The Princess of Wales when meeting veterans, serving personnel, and young people was clear to all. She took time to listen to individual stories and understand people’s personal connections with Remembrance,” continued Philippa. “Her Royal Highness also took particular interest in exhibitions, that were part of ‘The year was 1945…’, our year-long commemorative programme sharing real stories from 1945 through immersive exhibitions, poetry trails, and events. Her enthusiasm and engagement with the spirit and challenges of 1945 was a powerful demonstration of how the National Memorial Arboretum continues to safeguard Remembrance, ensuring these inspirational stories are preserved and shared with generations to come.”

The National Memorial Arboretum is part of the Royal British Legion and is the Nation’s year-round place to remember. The 150-acre estate is open 364 days a year and is free to enter. It is recommended to book visits in advance to guarantee entry and save on parking. “The year was 1945…” activities are available until 16 November 2025. For more information, visit: https://thenma.org.uk.