King Charles to Lead Nation in Remembrance Sunday Service

Published: 09 November 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

This Sunday, King Charles will take centre stage at the Cenotaph in London, leading the nation in a solemn National Service of Remembrance to honour those who have died in conflict. The service, which will feature a two-minute silence at 11am, marks a poignant moment for the country to reflect on the sacrifices of armed forces personnel, veterans, and civilians affected by war. Alongside the King, other members of the royal family and senior politicians will lay wreaths in tribute to the fallen.

Approximately 10,000 armed forces veterans are expected to participate in the Royal British Legion’s annual march-past, while around 20 Second World War veterans will also attend, a reminder that eight decades have passed since the end of the global conflict. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasised the significance of the day, describing Remembrance Sunday as an opportunity for Britain to “pause as a nation to honour all those who have served our country.” He reflected on the courage of the armed forces during both world wars and subsequent conflicts, highlighting that their dedication “secured the freedoms we cherish today.”

Starmer went on to stress that such sacrifices “deserve more than silence,” reaffirming the government’s ongoing commitment to supporting veterans, their families, and those currently serving. “Today, we remember, and we renew our promise to uphold the values they fought for,” he said.

Among those set to march is 101-year-old Donald Poole, a Royal Army Ordnance Corps technician who handled defective explosives and enemy ammunition. Poole, originally from Bromley, Kent, was serving in India in 1945 when Japan surrendered, marking the end of the Second World War. Reflecting on his participation, he described it as “a great honour to pay tribute to the poor souls who have died in all conflicts,” acknowledging the contributions of civilian services, particularly fire brigades who risked their lives during the Blitz.

Sid Machin, another centenarian veteran, is one of the last surviving “Chindit” soldiers from the Burma campaign during the Second World War. At around 19 years old, Machin landed behind enemy lines in a glider at night as part of a special forces operation designed to disrupt Japanese supply lines. Now residing in Dorset, he said: “I am proud to be marching at the Cenotaph with the Chindit Society, remembering my comrades and reflecting on those who didn’t make it home. It was tough, but we just had to get on with it and look out for each other.”

The participation of female veterans is also highlighted this year. Eileen Marshall, 98, one of just three female Second World War veterans marching at the Cenotaph, joined the Women’s Royal Naval Service in 1944 at age 17. Serving aboard HMS Ganges, she cared for officers’ quarters while witnessing the loss of colleagues at sea, including her cousin. She said, “Serving in the WRNS was one of the happiest times of my life, but also one of the saddest, especially when sailors were lost at sea. On Remembrance Sunday, I will march with the HMS Ganges Association to honour all who gave their lives, including my husband Ray, who served with the Highland Regiment and passed away in 1994. I will proudly wear his medals as I remember him and all the fallen.”

The ceremonial march will commence at 11.25am, following the two-minute silence. Thousands of members of the public are expected to line Whitehall to observe and pay their respects. The event is a reminder of both personal and national histories, connecting past sacrifices to the freedoms enjoyed today.

Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton emphasised the nationwide significance of the day, saying, “From the Cenotaph in London to memorials in towns and villages across the United Kingdom, and wherever our armed forces serve around the world, we pause to remember their courage, their sacrifice and their enduring legacy. We shall remember them.”

Philippa Rawlinson, director of remembrance at the Royal British Legion, underscored the unity and reflection the day fosters. “As we come together on Remembrance Sunday, we not only pay tribute to them but to all those who have bravely defended our freedoms and protected our way of life,” she said.

This year’s service comes at a time when the memories of those who served in global conflicts are increasingly rare, making the participation of centenarian veterans all the more significant. Their stories provide a direct connection to history, allowing younger generations to witness firsthand the extraordinary sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace.

As King Charles leads the nation in silence, the event serves as a collective act of remembrance, honouring the courage, resilience, and dedication of the men and women who have shaped the country’s history through service and sacrifice. The ceremony also highlights the enduring responsibility of the living to remember, reflect, and uphold the values for which so many gave their lives.