On The 11th Hour Of The 11th Day Quote
“At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent and the war was over.” This quote marks the end of the World War I, one of the deadliest conflicts in human history. This day is commemorated every year as Remembrance Day or Armistice Day, to remember the bravery of the soldiers who fought for their country.
The Origins of Remembrance Day
The idea of Remembrance Day came from the British Commonwealth nations, which were directly involved in the war. The first Remembrance Day was observed on November 11, 1919, a year after the end of the war. King George V inaugurated the day, and it was celebrated as a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the war.
Why is the 11th Hour of the 11th Day So Significant?
The armistice agreement between Germany and the Allied powers was signed on November 11, 1918, at 5:00 am. However, the agreement did not come into effect until six hours later, at 11:00 am. This time is significant because it marks the exact moment when the fighting stopped and the war ended.
The Poppy Symbolism
The poppy is a symbol of remembrance for the soldiers who died in the war. It is said that the poppy grew in the fields where the war was fought, and its bright red color symbolizes the bloodshed and sacrifice of the soldiers. The tradition of wearing poppies on Remembrance Day started in 1921, and it is still followed today.
Remembrance Day Celebrations Around the World
Remembrance Day is observed in many countries around the world, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In the UK, a two-minute silence is observed at 11:00 am to remember the soldiers. The Royal British Legion, a charity organization that supports veterans, organizes the annual Poppy Appeal to raise funds for the welfare of veterans and their families.
The Importance of Remembering the Heroes of WWI
Remembrance Day is not just about remembering the past; it is also about honoring the sacrifices of the soldiers who fought for our freedom. It is important to remember the lessons of the past and work towards a peaceful and harmonious future. As the famous quote goes, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Conclusion
On the 11th hour of the 11th day, the war ended, but the memories of the soldiers who fought and died for their country live on. Remembrance Day is a day to honor their bravery and sacrifices and to work towards a peaceful future. Let us remember the past, learn from it, and strive towards a better world.