Armed Forces Day on Saturday was such a success that organisers are even a little concerned it could come to overshadow Remembrance Sunday!
In Horsham’s Carfax, four standard bearers led a two minute silence to remember those who have lost their lives serving for their country.
Among those laying wreaths was council chairman Cllr Keith Wilkins and Revd Paul Redparth of All Saints Church.
The event, held to honours our forces past, present and future, was well attended and immaculately observed by the people of Horsham.
Organiser Dianne Loates said: “It was a fantastic day. The sun was shining and there was about 30 gentlemen on parade and four standard bearers.
“The chairman of the council put down a wreath at the war memorial on behalf of the people of Horsham, but what was nice was how many people stopped during the silence to pay their respects.
“There was even a band due to play at the bandstand who waited until the services had finished.”
Dianne, who has a military background and even survived a plane explosion as a 10-year-old in Cyprus back in 1956, said that she hoped the day would not detract from the November services.
She said: “There has been somebody killed serving our country every year - with the exception of 1967 - since the turn of the last century and it’s vital that their efforts are not forgotten.”
Afterwards, many of those involved in the parade went to The Bear for a drink and a chat.
“Days like these are not sombre occasions”, said Dianne. “It is a celebration of what our former and current servicemen and women have achieved.”
Pictures by John Lines
Subscribe