Remembering the fallen
The First World War established a landscape of remembrance familiar to us today. The sheer scale of the loss of life meant that new methods of commemoration were deemed necessary.
The annual practice of buying poppies began in 1921 as a response to the plight of ex-servicemen and their families after the War. The Royal British Legion, established the same year, still sells poppies to support the Armed Forces community.
"The young men of the world
Are condemned to death."
Lament by F S Flint
The question of remembrance was addressed early in the War. The decision not to repatriate the bodies of the fallen led to the establishment of military cemeteries abroad and memorials to those missing in action. Responsibility for these now rests with the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
Local memorials gave families or communities a focus for their grief. However, they required planning, discussion and fundraising. Many were not unveiled until the 1920s. These methods of remembrance have continued through the Second World War and beyond.
Lest we forget