100 years since November 11, 1918, literally disappeared in the blink of an eye
by Our London Correspondent
( November 12, 2018, London, Sri Lanka Guardian) For the first time in recalled history of war, the representatives of the victorious nations and the enemy nation, buried their animosities in a symbol of peace to commemorate the 100 years of World War I at the Remembrance ceremonies held at the Cenotaph in Whitehall London, whilst in Paris, leaders of the United States, France and Germany also paid their respects to the war dead.
100 years since November 11, 1918 literally disappeared in the blink of an eye.
A two minute silence was observed as Big Ben struck 12 noon in London. Everything came to a standstill with pervading silence, all over the British Isles, as well.
President Frank-Walter Steinmeier of Germany and Prince Charles attended in unison at the Cenotaph as Prince Charles laid the first wreath, on behalf of Her Majesty, The Queen, followed by the President Steinmeier, on a warm sunny early afternoon.
A Service of Commemoration for the Dead of the World Wars was held by the first Woman Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, the third position in the Church of England, showing gender equality.
Queen Elizabeth II watched the ceremonies from the balcony opposite the Cenotaph as younger Royals laid wreaths, followed by Prime Minister Theresa May and Leader of the Opposition, Jeremy Corbyn and leaders of all national parties.
All Commonwealth High Commissioners, in strict order of regaining independent status, together with Sri Lanka’sManisha Gunasekera, laid wreaths of their respective nations.
The 21 Gun salute, the sound of bugle lament, the March Past of Veterans of all wars, and bells tolling, told a vivid story of loss of life and the disaster of war.
Remembrance Sunday is held in the UK and the Commonwealth as a day to commemorate the contribution of British and Commonwealth military and service men and women in the two World Wars as well as later conflicts.
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