Veterans and their families will take part in an international remembrance service at dawn on Monday (25th April) to mark the 107th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign in the First World War.
Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland will join members of the Australian and New Zealand community for the service and wreath-laying ceremony at Comely Bank Cemetery at 5.30am. Led by Rev Dr Karen Campbell, it will feature Scots Guards piper Lance Sergeant Mark Macrae and bugler Iona McFarlane.
Later that morning, Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Frank Ross and Government representatives from Scotland, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, France, and Turkey will take part in Legion Scotland’s annual ANZAC and Gallipoli Day Service at the Scottish National War Memorial inside Edinburgh Castle at 11am.
ANZAC Day marks the service and sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Armed Forces, as well as those from Scotland and the rest of the world who served alongside them. It is the national day of remembrance in the two countries.
Both services are open to the public, with a limited number of tickets for the memorial available from 9:30-10:15am in front of the Castle on the Esplanade.
At dawn on April 25th, 1915, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC), together with British, French, and Russian forces landed on the Dardanelles Peninsula (now part of Turkey) at the start of the Gallipoli campaign.
This ended in a stalemate, with troops withdrawing in January 1916. A total of more than 100,000 soldiers were killed.
Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “This is an opportunity to come together to remember the service and sacrifices of ANZAC servicemen and women through the years, as well as our own soldiers who fell during the Gallipoli campaign.
“It is a chance to reflect on the extraordinary courage of our Armed Forces community, both past and present, as well as the enduring friendship between our countries.”
Forty years since the Falkland War began, pipers from across the world are being encouraged to come together to remember those who fell and were injured during the conflict.
Falklands veteran Graham Hopewell and Scots Guards Lance Sergeant Mark Macrae today (APRIL 2) joined military charities Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland to launch the call for musicians to take part.
They are asking them to perform “The Crags of Mount Tumbledown” on their doorsteps, streets, or hillside at 11am on June 18th as part of a day of national commemorations. This iconic march was composed by a Scottish soldier while under intense Argentine fire on the remote Falklands hillside.
On April 2, 1982, Argentinian forces invaded the British territory, leading to the 10-week conflict. A parade and service of remembrance will take place in Edinburgh later on June 18th to mark the anniversary of the ceasefire, remembering tens of thousands who fought in the South Atlantic and the 255 British servicemen who lost their lives.
The Crags of Mount Tumbledown was famously composed on the back of a ration packet by Pipe Major James Riddell, of the 2nd Battalion Scots Guards, during the final battle of the conflict on June 13th, 1982.
After nine hours of fierce fighting and hand-to-hand combat, British forces captured the stronghold which guarded the approach to the Falklands capital, Stanley. This led to the Argentinian surrender but cost the lives of eight Scots Guardsmen and one Royal Engineer attached to the Battalion.
After the battle, Pipe Major Riddell, from Stonehaven, climbed to the top of the mountain and played the first rendition of his new composition in commemoration of the event. The following day, British forces retook Stanley and the Argentines surrendered.
Sadly, Pipe Major Riddell died from a brain tumour in 1997.
Graham Hopewell, from Ayrshire, was a 19-year-old drummer with the Scots Guards when he was sent to the Falklands, serving under Piper Major Riddell. He remembers fighting in bleak, freezing conditions, and losing close friends during the battles.
One memory he will never forget is coming under air attack in Bluff Cove on June 8th. Shortly after he landed, Argentinian air forces hit the British ships, Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram, resulting in the loss of more than 50 lives.
He said: “We heard a massive explosion. When the planes came over the top, we just started shooting at them. There was no time to think about it and the adrenaline was just going.
“Later on, when we heard the ships had been hit, we realised it was real. I knew many of the Welsh Guards who were on the ships, and a close friend was killed in the attack. That was a huge shock, and it made us more determined to go on, so they hadn’t lost their lives for nothing.”
Mr Hopewell, 59, who now works as an undertaker, said: “The Falklands has always stayed with me. I was one of the lucky ones, but I think everyone was affected by it in some way. When I came back, I had no one to talk to about it and I found it hard getting my head round it all.
“I feel honoured to play this year as part of the anniversary commemorations. It’s important that we remember all those who lost their lives.”
Lance Sergeant Macrae, from Sutherland, has served in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as traveling the world with the Scots Guards Pipes and Drums. He said: “I’m very proud of what Graham and the others have done for us, and I’d encourage other pipers around the world to join us in paying tribute.”
Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “The Falklands conflict lasted just 74 days, but it had a profound impact on the lives of thousands of Scottish servicemen, women, and their families.
“Many paid the ultimate price and never returned home, while others have lived for decades with the physical and mental scars of the conflict.
“We hope that pipers in every part of Scotland, as well as the rest of the world, will join us in paying tribute to the sacrifices that they made. As we mark this anniversary, we’re pleased to be working with the Scottish Government and Armed Forces to hold national commemorations between now and June, and would encourage veterans, their families and the wider public to take part.”
Mark Collins, Interim Chief Executive of Poppyscotland, said: “The extraordinary story of how Pipe Major James Riddell composed the Crags of Mount Tumbledown in the heat of the battle is symbolic of the courage and resilience of our Armed Forces. While this battle marked the end of the conflict, those who gave their lives must never be forgotten.
“Joining together in playing this tune will be a fitting tribute to everyone who played their part in the Falklands conflict, as well as the continued sacrifices that our servicemen and women make today. We hope it will encourage people to learn more about how these events have shaped our recent history, as well as highlighting the role of our Armed Forces community and the support that is available to them.”
Carnoustie War Memorial has been crowned the best in Scotland at a prestigious event in Edinburgh. The annual competition, organised by the Royal British Legion Scotland (Legion Scotland), returned for a 39th year in 2021 having been paused last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Memorials large and small were recognised at a ceremony held in Edinburgh City Chambers and hosted by Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh, Rt Hon Frank Ross, on Friday 10th September. The Carnoustie memorial was chosen as the Champion of Champions, with other category winners including the War Memorials in Greystone Carmyllie (Angus) and Kirriemuir.
Legion Scotland’s Best Kept War Memorial competition was established in 1982 thanks to the vision of Bill Tait, a horticulturalist who was working with Edinburgh’s Botanic Gardens at the time.
Observing that many local War Memorials were in a poor state, Bill initiated the competition to improve their condition and appearance. Many memorials that were in the poorest condition at the start of the competition are now regular winners, a testament to the persistence, hard work and passion of the Legion Scotland members and other local volunteers involved.
Bill Tait said: “Our warmest congratulations go to all of this year’s winners. War memorials are such an important part of the fabric of communities across Scotland. Nearly every city, town and village has a memorial and it remains a vital and highly visible means of remembering the sacrifices made by so many in defence of our country, from the First World War to more recent conflicts.
“Recognising the huge efforts to maintain these sacred sites through the Legion Scotland Best Kept War Memorial competition is so important and it is a great honour to be Chair of the judging panel.
“The judges are looking for War Memorials to be in prime condition; clean, the masonry must be well maintained, lettering to be clear and legible and any metalwork to be well preserved.
“Access paths and seating are also important factors. On the horticultural side, the flora displays are scrutinised for their condition and should be weed free. Lawns and hedges should also be in pristine condition.
“Use of the Legion’s colours of blue and gold gain extra points.”
Speaking at Friday’s award ceremony, Lord Provost Frank Ross (above, centre) said: “War memorials provide an important place for reflection and the continued interest in Legion Scotland’s Best Kept War Memorial competition underlines the importance of remembering our fellow citizens, alongside those from elsewhere, who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our country.
“As the Capital’s Veteran Champion and on behalf of the citizens of Edinburgh I would like to thank everyone who took the time to enter during these difficult times and to those who have organised the competition. It is truly impressive to hear that the competition this year was as fierce as always and the high standards attained. My sincere congratulations to the winners and thank you for your hard work and dedication.”
With restrictions on public gatherings still in place, Armed Forces charity Legion Scotland will broadcast a ‘virtual’ service of remembrance tomorrow to commemorate ANZAC and Gallipoli Day, Sunday, April 25th.
The annual commemoration would normally take place in the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle, and provide a touching show of comradeship and remembrance to all those who fought at Gallipoli against the Ottoman Empire during the First World War. As with the 2020 event, this year’s ANZAC Day service will be a virtual one, broadcast by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland via their Facebook pages.
Observed on the 25th of April each year, ANZAC Day was originally devised to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC). It now represents a day when Antipodeans remember the sacrifices made in all conflicts. It is also an important day for Turkey as they remember those they lost in the conflict.
In a poignant display of remembrance and reconciliation, readings will be given by Colonel Michael Bassingthwaighte DSM, Australian Army Advisor in London; Scott Williamson, New Zealand Honorary Consul Scotland; and Mrs Hatice Tuğba İkizler Fearnley of The Government of the Republic of Turkey.
The virtual service will be conducted by Legion Scotland National Padre Rev Dr Karen Campbell.
Legion Scotland Chief Executive, Dr Claire Armstrong, said: “We had hoped that by now we may have been able to return to physical remembrance events, such is their importance to so many people.
“Sadly, it is still not yet safe to do so but, as we have demonstrated throughout the past year, virtual services ensure the memory of the fallen is not forgotten, even during a global pandemic.”
ANZAC Day services normally commence at dawn, coinciding with the moment ANZAC forces landed on the Gallipoli peninsula in April 1915. Saturday’s broadcast will begin at 5:42am via the Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland Facebook channels and will be available for the public to view again at any time thereafter.
Dr Armstrong added: “As the custodians of Remembrance in Scotland, our involvement in services of commemoration like these is so important and allows all members of our communities to join together to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, or who returned from battles in foreign lands with life-changing injuries.
“We will remember them and, even during these unprecedented times, our enduring message of comradeship comes very much to the fore.”
A national service of remembrance in Edinburgh has been cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus restrictions. The dedication and wreath laying service at the Garden of Remembrance in the capital’s Princes Street Gardens will instead be broadcast online for the first time.
The annual service normally attracts hundreds of spectators who stand shoulder to shoulder beneath the Scott Monument to pay their respects to the fallen of the First and Second World Wars, and all conflicts since.
Due to the ban on outdoor events across central belt health board areas, and the risk it would pose to the public, Legion Scotland have been forced to adapt. They will be broadcasting a special service of remembrance live on their Facebook page from 1050 on Monday, ensuring the public can still join together in paying their respects.
Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “We are very disappointed that the opening of the Garden of Remembrance cannot proceed as planned, but we are determined to ensure that the public can still come together in remembrance of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Coronavirus must not be allowed to cancel remembrance, but public safety is paramount.
“Unfortunately, this is not the first time that we have had to adapt our plans this year. We undertook three major commemorations in the 75th anniversary of VE and VJ Days in May and August respectively, and the 80th anniversary of St Valery in June, with considerable success. The virtual programme of events reached millions and were arguably even more successful as a result of being taken online.
“We hope that everyone who would have joined us in Princes Street Gardens for the Service, and thousands of others, will be able to view the virtual service, which will begin around 1050 on our Facebook page. Poppyscotland will be broadcasting the virtual service live through their YouTube channel and Facebook page as well.”
The service will be hosted by Legion Scotland National Padre Rev Dr Karen Campbell and will include a two minute silence at 1100. The Rt Hon Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh Frank Ross would normally be amongst the wreath laying party. Instead, a wreath was laid at the Garden of Remembrance on behalf of the City of Edinburgh by Deputy Lord Provost Joan Griffiths in private on Friday.
The Lord Provost said: “While it is disappointing that we can’t come together as planned to open the Garden of Remembrance this year, our priority has to be public safety. By adhering to the guidelines we are all playing our part in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
“Although physically not together, as with many areas of our lives, we can join in virtually and watch the poignant service online and my thanks to Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland for their work to make this possible.
“I urge residents to embrace new ways to donate to this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal and embrace the opportunity to observe the season of remembrance. Taking a moment to pause, reflect, remember and show our gratitude and appreciation for the enormous sacrifices that have been made – and continue to be made every day on our behalf – by courageous men and women.”
The current Scottish Government guidelines on outdoor last until 2nd November and further details on what will be permitted on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day are expected later this week.
Dr Armstrong continued: “While we await clarity on how new guidelines will impact on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day, it is safe to say that these events, both at a national and local level, cannot proceed as they normally would.
“We are therefore urging all Legion Scotland branches, and other organisations who have responsibility for remembrance events in their local area, to take note of the guidelines and only to stage events that are safe and fully compliant.”
She added: “It is important to note that the Edinburgh Garden and Field of Remembrance is open to the public. While mass gatherings are not permitted, we would very much encourage the public to visit on an individual basis.
“I also urge everyone to support this year’s Scottish Poppy Appeal. Thousands of Poppyscotland volunteers and Legion Scotland members are unable to collect as they normally would. Nevertheless, our Armed Forces community rely on the vital, life-changing support provided by Poppyscotland and they can only continue to deliver that through the funds raised during the Poppy Appeal.”
The virtual service of remembrance can be viewed at any of the following links:
An online service of remembrance and a two-minute silence will lead Scotland’s public commemorations of the 75th anniversary of VE Day on 8 May.
The ongoing coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic has meant that plans for the landmark anniversary – which were to include a parade, public concert and reception – will now take place online, with a video message of thanks from the First Minister and a concert in addition to the service and silence.
Led by Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland in partnership with the Scottish Government, the commemorations will include children and families currently learning at home.
Veterans Minister Graeme Dey said: “As the 75th anniversary of VE Day approaches, it is only right we pay tribute to the determination and the sacrifices made by the men and women who lived through the Second World War.
“Despite the difficult circumstances we are currently in, Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland are doing outstanding work in helping people across Scotland come together virtually on the 8 May to give thanks to our World War Two generation.
“I hope the whole nation can join with me online in honouring a generation whose contribution continues to impact on us all in many ways.”
Dr Claire Armstrong, Chief Executive of Legion Scotland, said: “The 75th anniversary of VE Day is an important milestone in the nation’s history and we are excited to launch our virtual programme.
“While the lockdown restrictions have forced us to postpone the planned physical events, we are confident that our virtual events will bring people across Scotland together in a memorable, shared moment of commemoration and celebration.”
Poppyscotland Chief Executive Mark Bibbey said: “We had just issued VE Day learning resources to every school in Scotland when the lockdown came into effect. Nevertheless, these have been amended and are now an excellent way for young people to find out more about the significance of VE Day while learning at home.
“We’ve had incredibly positive feedback from the parents who have already made use of them and would encourage anyone home schooling utilise this comprehensive digital resource.”
The Legion Scotland Service of Remembrance will be broadcast on Legion Scotland and Poppy Scotland’s social media channels from 10.40 a.m. until 11.15 a.m. The online concert will then begin at 11.45 a.m. until 1 p.m.
