Remembrance Services in 2018

The Branch has participated in numerous Remembrance Services over the past weeks for the fallen of all conflicts, world wide, since 1914. It was now exactly 100 years since the Armistice for the First World War had been signed on 11 November 1918.

Rheinberg  -  The ceremony held in Kamp-Lintfort/Rheinberg on Sunday 11 November was organised by our Branch. Well over 100 persons attended from numerous British and German organisations and 15 wreaths were laid by their representatives including one from the British Consul General. A tent had been erected and, besides coffee and cakes, RBL Poppy items were sold, all told leading to a sum donation of €472.40. The weather held good and everyone said afterwards how worthy the ceremony had been.

Cologne  -  Also held on 11 November, the weather proved good. This event was organised by German organisations. The event was well publicised and this led to increased participation. Many had made special journeys, including one family from Kent and another from Newcastle to pay their respects, without knowing that a service was taking place.  A Poppy collection was made by St George's School - amount yet unknown. Graham Warren laid the wreath on behalf of our Branch. Unfortunately there is no photo for inclusion.

Reichswald  - The ceremony took place on Sunday 11 November, unfortunately a report has not yet been received. Steve Turner was wreathlayer.

Mönchengladbach -  This ceremony was well visited particularly by Branch members. Steve Owen laid the wreath. A report and photos are expected in the next few days.

MG-Wickrath -  Again well visited with a number of our own members being present. Photos have been received but the revamp of the website means I have yet to find out how photos are inserted into web-pages. The wreathlaying was undertaken by Chris Farrell.

Viersen -  The event was organised by the German Wargraves Commission and German Reservistenverband. Following a Pipe Band and choral rendition the Mayoress of Viersen gave a speech, after which the procession made its way to the memorial. Again numerous Branch members were present. Dick Simmons laid the wreath.

Willich  -  A service was conducted in Willich on 18 Novenber to commemorate the fallen. The service was organised by the RE Association, Willich and was attended by a large number of our members.