I can't hear The Last Post without crying.
As a reporter I went to countless Remembrance Day services, taking photos of the veterans and local dignitaries placing wreaths on the cenotaphs while young cadets stood guard. I vowed, every time, that I wouldn't cry, not at this one, but the solemnity of the occasion always got me, always made me think.
The glistening tears of grown men, old men, tears almost freezing on their tired faces, because it is always cold on Remembrance Day, pressed a cold finger on my own heart, made their memories current and real. By the time the sobering strains of The Last Post were played the tears were falling freely down my own face, hidden behind my camera, not naked and brave like they were on the faces of the Legionnaires.
This morning there is snow on the ground, the first snow of the season.
Of course there is.
The least we can do is to be cold and uncomfortable for a few minutes out of our year to honour those who underwent untold suffering on our behalf. I usually spend Remembrance Day with wet cheeks myself.
ReplyDeleteI was very surprised that the BBC did not appear to have any coverage at 11AM this morning (according to the schedule) but I will be tuned in to the Festival of Remembrance from the Royal Albert Hall tomorrow evening and will watch the Cenotaph service on Sunday morning.
ReplyDeleteI remember watching this a couple of years ago and Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock Holmes, etc.) gave a monologue that had tears coursing down my face.
To all the fallen, we salute you for your sacrifice.
SueH Lest We Forget
Here's hoping you had the Kleenex on hand, Delores!
ReplyDeleteAmen, Sue.
It's hard not to be affected by the memorial services each year. I think that says something very important about you, Cathy.
ReplyDeleteI am a complete sucker for ceremony. I cry every time I see the soldiers move the wreath, when the new man and woman have their first kiss, and most hallmark cards commercials...well mainly the Christmas ones.
ReplyDeleteThanks Laurita (gee shucks). And a big thank you to V for the follow! I was just thinking my blog was like one of those deserted western towns with the tumbleweeds blowing through it and, lo and behold, your lovely face shows up! Thanks so much, means a lot to mean. And keep bawling over those Christmas commercials.
ReplyDeleteThanks Cathy
ReplyDelete