London Remembers 2018

London Remembers

The Master and Mistress joined Masters and Clerks from other Livery Companies, together with representatives from every London Borough and senior members of the British, Commonwealth, French and German Forces at a Drumhead Service in the grounds of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea on Saturday 1st September 2018 to commemorate the actions of the London Divisions during the final Hundred Days Offensive of the First World War.The Service was led by the former Bishop of London, Lord Chartres, and featured the North London Military Wives Choir, contingents from, among others, the Chelsea Pensioners, the Royal Yeomanry and the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY).Following the Drumhead Service, we all retired to the adjoining field to eat, drink, socialise and watch displays by various cadet units. It was truly inspiring to watch young citizens of London exhibit their skills with total dedication. Groups such as those present on September 1st provide a wonderful alternative to street gangs in the deprived areas of London and give the youngsters a focus and purpose in life. Some will go on to serve in our Forces, but the majority will not. They will, however, have learned the importance of teamwork, leadership, self-confidence and self-reliance – all necessary skills as they progress in life.The Master wishes to thank the Royal Hospital and, of course, their Pensioners, for their hospitality and for hosting such a wonderful day.