This weekend will be a weekend of remembrance as people up and down the country will be commemorating the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. On Saturday 11th November – Armistice Day, at 11am, a 2-minute silence will be held to pay respects to all that have served and those that have sacrificed.
On remembrance Sunday, services will be held around Great Britain’s cenotaphs. A 2-minute silence will begin, and bugles will play the last post, poppy wreaths laid to signify remembrance and the names of the fallen read out in honour.
We have had the privilege to speak to some of our staff members who have served our country, through their stories, we have learned how important it is to honour the people who dedicated themselves to protecting our freedoms.
Here are some of the poignant thoughts and words from our veterans at Collins Seafoods.
Jill Saint (Operations Manager) served in the Royal Navy from 1991-2001
“I joined when I was 17 years old after my mother took me to the careers office and told me I had no choice (true story)! My brother was serving also at the time, and he had been in for 2 years.
I did my basic training in Torpoint, Cornwall and then moved to train as a Radio Operator in Petersfield Hampshire.
My first posting was serving along with 15 other women onboard a war ship with 200 men as the first women at sea, this was both intimidating (men and their wives didn’t want us there) and it was very difficult at times, but we all looked out for each other.
Throughout my 10-year service, I travelled the world visiting over 30 countries including the Falkland Islands, and in 1995 served onboard HMS Coventry during the Bosnian conflict and received a medal for Operations we were involved in.
There were so many memorable moments (many I couldn’t mention) however making amazing friends and travelling the world seeing other cultures and countries was the most amazing part.
On remembrance Sunday we attend the parade held in Newton Aycliffe town and pay our respects as a family. This is a time to remember those who sacrificed so much for our freedom and be proud of the small part I gave to serve my country.
Michael Laverty (Sales Administrator for Yorkshire) served in the Army in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) from 1985-1997
Mick was 17 years old when he joined the Army, straight out of school. He did his basic training at Princess Marina College (PMC) Arbourfield before trade training at Borden in Hants.
Mick was posted in Germany from 1986-1991, and from 91-97 he was based in the UK.During his service, he did 2 tours of Canada, 2 Tours of Bosnia and 1 of Northern Ireland, which he recalls as being the toughest. He was in Northern Ireland between 87-88, during the height of the troubles.
Mick enjoyed Sports during his time in service and played both football and rugby for the CORPS in BAOR. Recalling his Army days, he has both good and bad memories, but remembers his comrades he served with in his CORPS as being like a close-knit family. Days he will never forget.
Mick wears his poppies every day along with his CAP Badge and the lost soldier poem, as a tattoo on his right arm.
As we reflect on the memories our wonderful veterans have shared, it re-enforces the importance of Remembrance Day, and shows the impact of military service.
Some stories will continue to be shared and sadly, some people’s stories will go untold. For all the veterans, their families and all who have served and will serve, lets make sure their legacy continues and is never forgotten.
