Young people at the heart of Portsmouth’s Remembrance Sunday
Young people, mental health and the sacrifices of Portsmouth civilians during the Blitz will be at the heart of this year’s Remembrance Sunday commemorations.
Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, has revealed his plans for the service and parade, which will take place on Sunday, November 9 at Guildhall Square.
The event will honour those who served in both world wars, as well as all service personnel who have lost their lives in conflicts since.
Cllr Vernon-Jackson said he was inspired by a visit to Normandy in June, where young people played a key role in marking D-Day.
He said this helped ensure “each new generation shows and understands the sacrifices people went through”.
The Lord Mayor also highlighted the city’s wartime history. During the Second World War, 930 Portsmouth civilians were killed, 1,216 were hospitalised, and around 20 per cent of homes were damaged or destroyed in the Blitz.
To mark this, the council has created a short video featuring cadets who will reflect on the sacrifices and achievements of Portsmouth residents during that time.
Cllr Vernon-Jackson also wants to recognise veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), saying it’s “not a visible” condition and “we need to remember them as well.”
He added that it’s “really important” Portsmouth continues to remember, as a proud military city and the home of the Royal Navy.
The Lord Mayor also thanked the Air Cadets and other youth groups who are giving up their time to take part in the day - some of which will be giving speeches on the day.
The Remembrance Sunday service will run from 10.30am to 12pm, beginning with a parade of veterans, military personnel and youth groups. A two-minute silence will be held at 11am, followed by the main service and a wreath-laying ceremony at the World War I Cenotaph and World War II Memorial.
On Armistice Day (Tuesday, November 11), a shorter service will take place at 10.45am at the Cenotaph in Guildhall Square.
It will include readings, poems and a two-minute silence at 11am – marking the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.