Why is it important to still mark Remembrance Day

Ahead of Remembrance Day, we found out why people believe it is important to mark the date and remember.

Remembrance Day is a memorial day that marks the end of the First World War (November 11), and honours armed forces members who have died.

It remembers the sacrifice and service of all those who have defended our freedoms and fought in the wars, which is marked through Remembrance Sunday with services and minutes of silence.

Across Newark, everyone we spoke to was very passionate about why we should mark the date, from honouring those who gave us freedom and lost friends and family in war, to teaching youngsters and avoiding a repeat of history.

Carol Wright said: “It is very important because apart from the fact that some veterans are still alive, it was a massive sacrifice through Europe and a lot of countries suffered a big deal from it.

“It is important to educate school children and youngsters about all the horrors that happened so hopefully doesn’t happen again.”

Brian Hall said that he thought it is “everyone’s responsibility” to honour the fallen:

“A lot of people died for our safety and the life we live now,” he said, “It is to show respect as well, that is possibly the most important thing.”

David Dobbs said it was because of the “freedom we got because of all those who fought for us,” and Jeff Smith agreed that we need to remember the people who lost their lives.

Des Skillington added: “We are where we are today because of the people who kept us afloat and I still respect them and I always will.”

Over the weekend, towns and villages in the area will come together for the annual commemorations.

Towns hosting services include Newark, Ollerton, Edwinstowe, Southwell, Bingham and villages Balderton, Coddington, Caythorpe and Barnby in the Willows.

Steve Kirkland said: “We should not forget what other people have done for you to walk these streets today.

“People have given their lives for that, that is what we need to remember and manners.”

Maureen Kendall said: “I think if you don’t look back at things and remember them, they can get lost and the whole importance of life gets lost.”

David Kendall added: “You have got to look at History. The British Society didn’t start in 1997 with Tony Blur, there is a lot of history to look back on and we should do that.”

“There is a war going on now, it is not only remembering but looking at what they are doing now,” said Linda Harling.

Clive Harling said: “It is about respect.”

Phil Ward said: “I think it is important that we remember the sacrifices that they did in the past, they gave us our freedom basically.”

Malcolm Goodall said: “It is important because we might have a World War 3 now so we should learn from it.”

Now the Advertiser asks its readers — Why do you think it is important to still mark Remembrance Day?

Let us know in the comments below…