LEST WE FORGET

"Lest we forget" is a phrase meaning "so that we don't forget," and is most commonly used as a solemn reminder of those who have died in war, particularly during Remembrance Day or Veterans Day services. It originates from Rudyard Kipling's 1897 poem, "Recessional," which was written to warn against the dangers of imperialism and forgetting God, but has since been adopted into military remembrance traditions." 

ALL PICTURES ARE FROM THE REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY, NOVEMBER 11, 2025, IN BERMUDA. 

Leading the ceremony was the Royal Bermuda Regiment (RBR) 

The first Remembrance Day was conducted in 1919 throughout the Commonwealth and Britain. Originally called Armistice Day, it commemorated the end of hostilities of the Great War in 1918, known as World War I. It came to symbolise the end of the war and provide an opportunity to remember those who had died.

The RBR’s Band and Corps of Drums, the Salvation Army Bermuda Divisional Band, the Somerset Brigade Band, and the Bermuda Islands Pipe Band.

“So, what was Remembrance Day like in the early years? There were certainly church services, much the same as today, and the Forces’ chaplain spoke at the Cenotaph. It was also a day not just for remembrance, but for looking forward, and throughout the country, meetings were held, attended by thousands… Local war memorials were erected throughout the 1920s. At annual ceremonies, the names of the dead were read out loud, and so the awful silence was accompanied by a vocal acknowledgement.

The Bermuda Police Service

Dignitaries of the legislature

After the end of the Second World War in 1945, Armistice Day became Remembrance Day to include all those who had fallen in the two World Wars and other conflicts. Now, this anniversary on the 11th November is used to remember all the people who've fought and died in wars since World War including soldiers from WW II, and other conflicts, including the Falklands War, the Gulf War, and conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.

His Excellency the Governor, Andrew Murdoch CMG

On Remembrance Day, we take 2 minutes to silently pay respects to the millions of heroes who served for and protected their country. We also thank all those who are currently serving, especially those deployed overseas, facing new dangers day after day.”

What does it mean, "We will remember"? The Apostle Peter reminds us by saying, “Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. 2 Peter 1:12. 

Veterans from World War II march into place, in front of  His Excellency the Governor, Andrew Murdoch CMG, the Premier of Bermuda, David Burt, JP, MP, and other dignitaries.

My friend, no matter how long you may have been traveling in the way of life eternal, remember, we all need often to recount the mercies of our heavenly Father toward us and gather hope and courage from the promises of His Word.

Bandmaster of the Royal Bermuda Regiment - Lieutenant Sheldon Fox 

Today, like Peter, I would like to encourage you to realize the value of constant vigilance in your walk with God. Secondly, let us all take time to understand the importance of exercising great care in our daily lives. Thirdly, let us live in a spirit of remembrance. Oh, if only we were to keep before our minds those things that pertain to our eternal welfare, we should not engage in any foolishness, violence, or idle speaking! 

Our lifework is before us. It is for us to give diligence to make our calling and election sure by giving heed to the plain instruction contained in God’s Holy Word. 

Family members of former veterans walking with veterans

As I reflect on the spirit that brings us together every Remembrance Day. I am reminded that God is now testing and proving His people. This is the day of character development. Angels are weighing moral worth, and keeping a faithful record of all the acts of the children of men… That God who reads the hearts of everyone, will bring to light hidden things of darkness where they are often least suspected, that stumbling blocks which have hindered the progress of truth may be removed. 

Bermuda Islands Pipe Band

There will be no future probation in which to prepare for eternity. It is in this life that we are to put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness. This is our only opportunity to form characters for the home which Christ has made ready for those who obey His commandments.

The storm is coming when we shall see more wars, famine, and pestilence. As we remember those who fought in the wars since the First World War. Let us seek ways to help our country and improve life for our neighbors. 

Canon Calvert Prentis, of the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity in Hamilton, and Chaplain Dr. Kevin J.T. Santucci - First Chaplain of the City of Hamilton and All Uniform Services.

Today, many wrong things are happening unnoticed. But let us, by our godly conversation, set an example of rightdoing that would be a standing rebuke to them who choose to do wrong. Because now is the time, the only time to seek shelter in the truth of the living God. If you’re blessed through this message, pass it on to someone. 

Bermuda’s War Memorial

By GARDN MINISTRY