Remembrance Day is a day to honour the sacrifices of members of the armed forces and of civilians in times of war, specifically since the First World War. It is always observed on 11 November to recall the end of World War I on that date in 1918. We also remember, in particular on this day, those St Charles College boys who gave their lives in these wars.

A remembrance Day service was held on Friday, 10 September at St Charles College. Representatives from the SALegion and Natal Carbineers, along with staff and students of St Charles College congregated in the Chapel, and the order of proceedings followed closely the layout of the ceremonies which occur across the European continent. Two bugle calls are played, the Last post and Reveille. The Last Post is a call to remember those who have been killed in war. This is followed by a second piece called, ‘The Reveille’. This call marks the beginning of each day to wake up soldiers. The two tunes symbolise sunset and sunrise respectively, and in the context of this occasion they symbolise death, but more importantly a promise of resurrection. Other traditions that are also observed include two minutes of silence for reflection, the laying of wreaths, and we have brought in our tradition of releasing pigeons, symbolising the release of our loved ones.

Our deputy principle, Mr Graham Stewart-Burger, gave the address highlighting the importance of Remembrance Day in “showing respect for those who were willing to serve their country and, if need be, to make the ultimate sacrifice so that we who are here now can have the life that we know”. – Mr Ross Ducasse

Pictures: Photos from our Remembrance Day at the College on Friday 10 November 2017