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Memorial Service 2008

Sunday 14th September 2008: Service of Remembrance & Wreath Laying at the National Memorial The Service of Remembrance on Sunday 14th September was a most moving event, with the Church of St Mary Le Bow filled to capacity. The Master and Wardens of the Worshipful Company of Firefighters processed into the Church and took their places. Standards from Brigades across the U.K., together with the Union Flag, and Standards from the Fire Service College, National Association of Retired Firefighters and the London Fire Brigade were received. To see more gallery pictures from the day CLICK HERE Following the Service, the Parade formed up with vintage fire and emergency vehicles, Standards, a marching band comprising players from the West Midlands and the Tyne and Wear Brigades and almost the entire congregation. The Parade, from Cheapside to the United Kingdom Firefighters National Memorial situated near to St Paul’s Cathedral, was escorted by City of London Police foot patrols, motor cycle outriders and mounted branch officers. To see the picture gallery from the Parade CLICK HERE At the Memorial a short but poignant Wreath Laying Service was held, with those present observing a two-minute silence. The Last Post, Reveille and a Lament (by a lone piper) were played. The Names of Firefighters who sadly made the ultimate sacrifice during the past twelve months were read out. Over fifty wreaths were laid, not only by loved ones but also by a wide cross-section of the Fire Service Community. Twenty five Brigades were represented at the Ceremony which was attended by about three hundred and fifty people and observed by many tourists. The parade was dismissed after the final wreaths were laid and many people then approached the Memorial and stood in quiet contemplation. The Standard Bearers and Fire Service Bands are to be congratulated for providing such a stirring input to the whole of the Remembrance Event. To see a picture gallery of the wreath laying CLICK HERE

Last Updated ( Tuesday, 08 December 2009 )