Thank you to the CCF and all involved in organising our remembrance parade yesterday. The school gathered on The Flat to mark the two minutes’ silence and lay a wreath.
The school captains read ‘For the Fallen’ by Laurence Binyon, and Mr Elzinga spoke, honouring the memory and sacrifice of all who have served in conflicts:
‘An act of remembrance is an important moment – particularly at this hour on this day of this month. We remember those who served for this country and other countries in the pursuit of peace and justice. We remember in particular those former students of this school and local members of this town.
‘I’ve spoken to many of you this week who were remembering their relatives who served their country. Personally I remember my great-grandfather who served in the British Navy, and my grandfather who served in the US Air Force in WWII.
‘As Spanish philosopher George Santayana, said: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
‘And whilst this act of remembrance is valuable on its own, it feels particularly poignant in today’s world. Part of remembrance is remembering the tragedy of war, and appreciating peace.
‘As we live through ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, we wish for peace. Those of us who pray will pray for peace, and I know all of us will hope and strive for peace – and challenge leaders across the world to bring peace and justice.
‘We regularly note that the aim of a Sevenoaks education is to develop young people who will go out and make the world a better and more peaceful place. Today I also hope that many of you here will fulfil this aim.’
