Armed Forces Networks from Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT) and University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) came together today, Friday 10 November, to host a Service of Remembrance for veterans, NHS staff and partners, and members of the public.
Wreaths were laid by representatives from LPT, UHL and the Leicestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) at the Secret Garden on the Glenfield Hospital site.
Veterans were joined by NHS staff who took time out of their day to remember the service and sacrifice of all those who have lost their lives defending our democratic freedoms.
The joint service between LPT and UHL was delivered by Lead Chaplain of both Trusts’, Kartar Singh Bring.
Kartar said: “We remember the immeasurable courage and sacrifice of our veterans from Leicester, Leicestershire, Rutland and around the world who left their homes and families, shouldering the burden of protecting our way of life.
We remember horrors of war that they faced with determination and courage, the many who paid the ultimate price, leaving behind families who carried the weight of their loss, and those who returned home bearing the mental and physical scars of war. We are indebted.”
A military parade consisting of serving and ex-serving armed forces personnel was led by UHL’s Vincent Smith who also laid a wreath on behalf of the Royal Artillery Association for whom he served in the 103 Regiment.
The Secret Garden fell silent at 11am for a two-minute period of reflection to commemorate those lost in the First World War and those who served in later conflicts, from WW2 and the Falklands War to those who continue to play a vital role in service to Britain today.
A total of eight wreaths were laid, including one by LPT’s chief executive, Angela Hillery and another by Armed Forces Lead Brendan Daly, who also chairs the military staff network for the Trust.
Brigadier William James Hurrell from the Leicestershire Lieutenancy joined on the day and recited The Exhortation to those who had gathered.
“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.”
The Armed Forces Networks from both Trusts’ continue to raise awareness of the issues faced by those in the military community.
Supporting the wellbeing of those who have served in the armed forces, and ensuring they have equal access to NHS services, is a key commitment for both LPT and UHL.
Op Community is a telephone line for the armed forces community (including veterans, reservists, serving personnel, families and the wider armed forces community) to offer support and guidance around navigating NHS services and advice regarding other services that can support with issues.
If you need advice as we approach Remembrance Day, please call Op Community on 0116 225 6858.