Remembrance Day is a day to remember and honour those who have served in the armed forces and died in the line of duty. It is an important day of remembrance for many countries around the world, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. We’ll take a look at some interesting facts about Remembrance Day. From its history and traditions to its importance and how it’s celebrated today, these facts will give you a better understanding of this solemn day of remembrance. So, without further ado, here are the top 10 facts about Remembrance Day.
1. Remembrance Day is celebrated to remember all of the people who died in World War I.
World War 1 ended in 1918.
Since then Remembrance Day is a day to remember all British and Commonwealth armed forces members killed in all wars and conflicts worldwide.
It is celebrated in other countries too like Australia and Canada.
We use the day to reflect and raise money for the armed forces.
2. It falls on 11th November every year.
Remembrance Day falls on 11th November every year.
This is because it is the day when World War 1 ended.
The war ended on 11th November, 1918.
3. Poppies are a symbol of Remembrance Day.
Around Remembrance Day you will see lots of poppies!
This is because they are a symbol of World War I.
A lot of the battles had poppies nearby.
There was also a soldier called John McCrae who wrote a poem called ‘In Flanders Fields’ which was inspired by the poppies.
4. We hold a 2 minute silence at 11am.
On 11th November at 11am we have a 2 minute silence.
We even have one on Fun Kids!
It is a time to reflect on all the people who died for us in the war.
5. World War 1 ended on ‘the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month’ in 1918.
Did you know that World War 1 ended on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month?
That’s why the two minute silence is held at 11am.
6. The Cenotaph is a war memorial in London.
The Cenotaph is a war memorial on Whitehall, in London.
It is also where the annual National Service of Remembrance is held.
The Royal Family will attend along with other very important people like politicians.
Wreaths of poppies are also put on it.
7. Remembrance day used to be known as Armistice Day.
Remembrance Day was previously Armistice Day.
An Armistice was signed to end the war. This is when both sides agree to stop fighting.
However, after World War II, it changed to Remembrance Day.
8. Remembrance Day was started in 1919 by King George V.
In 1919 King George V decided that we would have a 2 minute silence on Armistice Day.
This was after a politician suggested it.
It has stuck ever since!
9. Paper poppies are sold to raise money for the armed forces.
You will see lots of paper poppies around Remembrance Day.
They are sold by the Royal British Legion to raise money for people in the armed forces today and former members.
You will see lots of people wearing them including newsreaders, the Royal Family and even your friends!
10. The Sunday before Remembrance Day is called Remembrance Sunday.
We celebrate Remembrance Day on 11th November.
However, the closest Sunday to Remembrance Day is known as Remembrance Sunday.
On Remembrance Sunday the national memorial ceremony is held in London.
Often the Royal Family and politicians attend to show their respects.
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