‘Poppy shows that you care’, says Oxfordshire Royal British Legion
Today is Armistice Day, marking the anniversary of the end to World War I
Oxfordshire will fall silent for two minutes at 11 o'clock to remember those who've lost their lives serving in the armed forces on Armistice Day.
It’s as today marks 106 years since the agreement to end the First World War.
‘Wearing your poppy shows that you care’
Poonam Vaja, spokesperson for the Royal British Legion in Oxfordshire, said: “All proceeds go towards go towards our serving and ex-serving personnel and it helps their family at the same time, so I think it’s very personal and important because wearing your poppy shows that you care.
“So, it really means something and donating anything from a penny to a pound is everything to families of the armed forces and to themselves serving as well.
“We help parents and children, as we understand they they’re often moving a lot. So, there is a support network out there as we’ve got our wellbeing team and the welfare team. So, if anyone does need that help, support or advice please do get in touch with the Royal British Legion.”
This year the Royal British Legion are focusing on helping the mental health of those serving in the armed forces and their families.
Ms Vaja said: “Their body armour protects them from physical danger, but there isn’t a shield for the mind and mental health affects everybody.
“With the Royal British Legion there’s such a close gap between physical and mental wellbeing, so we’re always wanting to help those who are in need.”
Remembrance Sunday
In London yesterday (Sunday 10 November) the King led commemorations at the Cenotaph in Whitehall.
Thousands of people, including the Princess of Wales, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and eight former leaders watched as the nation fell silent at 11am, as they will today.
It is to remember those from Oxfordshire and across the country who've lost their lives serving in the armed forces.
1\6 year old Lexie Pallet attended the service in London yesterday.
Her dad Oliver was a Sergeant in the RAF based at Brize Norton. He died 4 years ago.
She says why Remembrance is so important:
"Remembrance for us is everyday, and it's so important to remember the fallen, and those still fighting, and it's such an honour to be here today."
Lexie has been helped by charity Scotty's Little Soldiers, which supports hundreds of bereaved military children and young people.
She says she will be thinking of her Dad during the silence at 11am.