Dear Sir,

I am the mother of three, grandmother of five and great-grandmother of two. A retired law clerk, I write from a place of gratitude and remembrance for those who served.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Bermuda’s Cenotaph — a solemn monument that stands as a lasting tribute to those who served and died in war, far from their island home. The Cenotaph memorialises Bermudian men and women who were killed overseas and buried in other lands, yet are forever remembered here on our shores.

Bermuda’s Cenotaph, located in front of the Cabinet Office in Hamilton, bears a striking resemblance to the original structure at Whitehall in London, which lies between the Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar Square. Work on Bermuda’s monument began in 1920 and was completed in 1925, a reflection of the island’s enduring commitment to honouring its fallen heroes.

Each year, on November 11, crowds gather before the Cenotaph to observe Remembrance Day, formerly known as Armistice Day. The original armistice was signed at 11am on November 11, 1918, marking the end of the First World War. That moment of peace — “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” — has been commemorated ever since.

The ceremony remains one of Bermuda’s most dignified national observances. His Excellency the Governor of Bermuda inspects the guard of honour, while the Royal Bermuda Regiment, Bermuda Police Service, Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service and youth organisations take part in the parade. Wreaths are laid at the foot of the Cenotaph — bright red poppies arranged in circles of remembrance.

The poppy, first immortalised in the poem InFlanders Fields, has become a global symbol of sacrifice and peace.

When November 11 falls on a Sunday, the public holiday is observed on the following Monday, ensuring that this important tradition is always marked with reverence.

After the Second World War, the name of the observance was changed from Armistice Day to Remembrance Day, broadening its tribute to include all who served in conflicts since 1918.

Today, as we reflect on a century of remembrance, we give thanks for those who “fought the ultimate fight” so that we may live in peace. Their courage and sacrifice continue to inspire generations of Bermudians.

May they rest in peace.

VENITA SMITH

Hamilton Parish