Lest We Forget

The annual Remembrance Day Service on Monday provided a moment for pupils, teachers, and support staff to honour those who gave their lives in the two World Wars and in other conflicts. Held in Perrins Hall and shared across the School, the Service featured a commemorative Remembrance film and was introduced by the Headmaster, who marked the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings and the Battle of Normandy in 1944. These historic events launched a major Allied offensive, ultimately leading to the end of the Second World War fifteen months later.

The Service was led by the County Chaplain of the Royal British Legion in Worcestershire and included a moving performance by the RGS Chamber Choir. A Guard of Honour from the School’s Combined Cadet Force also accompanied the Service.

Together, we paid tribute to all those who have lost their lives in war and conflict, especially the eighty-three RGS Worcester alumni whose names are inscribed on the First World War and Second World War memorials in Perrins Hall. This year, we also held in our thoughts the people of Ukraine—those enduring conflict within their homeland and those seeking refuge in countries like Britain, including families within our own RGS community. We recognised their courage and resilience in the face of ongoing adversity.

Our thoughts extended as well to all affected by recent conflicts in the Middle East, including in Israel, Gaza, and the wider region. Regardless of personal views on these conflicts it is important to reflect on the innocent lives impacted in a conflict they did not choose.

During the Service, School Captains laid wreaths at the memorials in honour of those from our community who made the ultimate sacrifice.

After the Remembrance Service, Year Eleven pupil Rachel Crookall wrote an exceptional poem which we have shared below. We commend Rachel on her poem and thank her for her contribution.

“The Night of Remembrance Day (written 11/11/24)

I walk back home from high school on that cold Remembrance Day,

I have my music lesson and then go about my way.

Almost without knowing, it’s half-past nine at night,

And lying on my bed, I suddenly catch sight

Of my poppy. On the lapel of my blazer hanging there.

It shines so bright that for a moment I just sit and stare.

For every year we take our poppies from our coats and hats,

This symbol of remembrance gets one day, and that’s that.

 It lies forgotten, dusty in some ancient, cluttered drawer

When it really represents all of past and present wars,

And the blood and toil and shock and sweat that every soldier faced,

All these battle terrors on a floral badge are placed.

Yet we see fit to chuck it out like some discarded pin,

To ‘keep it safe’ ’til next next year or just throw it in the bin,

When they really died for all, no matter where or when,

So wear your poppy one more day… just to remember them.”

Thanks must go to all involved in the Remembrance Day Service. Understanding and cherishing the past is always important at RGS Worcester and the act of Remembrance provides the opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces and other Services.