As a long-term resident of the UK, I truly value how traditions shape the rich tapestry of British communities. Inspired by a meaningful conversation with my friend David Harris, I find myself reflecting on the significance of Remembrance Day, a solemn occasion that occurs each November. This day not only serves to honour those who bravely sacrificed their lives in the horrors of war, but it also offers an opportunity for communities to come together in a collective act of remembrance. As we observe moments of silence and participate in various ceremonies, we acknowledge the courage and commitment of those who fought for our freedoms. This day reminds us of the importance of peace and the lessons learned from the past, fostering a sense of unity and gratitude among generations.
Coming from Türkiye, I’ve found that the concept of remembrance feels both familiar and universal. In Türkiye, we also pause to honor those who have fallen, especially during World War I at the Gallipoli Peninsula, where soldiers from Türkiye, the UK, and across the Commonwealth faced one another under harrowing conditions. That shared history has taught me that while war often divides, it can also connect us through the recognition of bravery, sacrifice, and loss on all sides. Remembrance Day invites us to honour that shared connection.
Lincoln, with its rich military heritage, holds a special place in Britain’s story of service and sacrifice. Lincolnshire played a vital role in both World Wars, particularly in aviation, as the county became home to several RAF bases. Many families in this region can trace connections to those who served in the Royal Air Force or various regiments, and for them, Remembrance Day is deeply personal. When we wear poppies, observe the silence, and gather at the city’s memorials, we remember their stories and the price they paid.
Yet Remembrance Day is more than just a historical observance. It’s a moment that brings us together to remember the values that people have fought to protect: freedom, dignity, and peace. Whether we trace our family histories here in Lincoln or across other nations, honoring these values reminds us of the shared responsibility we have to protect peace. The act of remembrance bridges borders and brings people from all backgrounds together in shared respect and gratitude.
For me, Remembrance Day is a reminder that the lessons of the past must guide us today. It is easy to look at history as something separate from us, but the truth is, the legacy of those who came before us shapes our lives now. Honoring their sacrifice calls us to work towards a world where conflict is no longer inevitable. It challenges us to be kind, inclusive, and resilient, to seek unity even in difficult times, and to foster a community that values peace over division.
As we gather this Remembrance Day, whether it’s for a service in Lincoln’s Cathedral or a quiet reflection at home, let us honor those who came before us by committing to a future where such sacrifice is no longer needed. By remembering together, we strengthen the values that bind us as a community and as people
values of peace, respect, and shared humanity.
by Hakan Nurhak
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