First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was amongst those who attended a service of Remembrance in Edinburgh
The nation bowed its heads this weekend to remember those who died one hundred years on from the First World War.
Remembrance services took place across the country on Sunday to remember the millions of people who died during the conflict.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was in Edinburgh to pay her respects, where she was joined by Lord Provost Frank Ross and members of the Armed Forces community, for a ceremony at the Stone of Remembrance to mark Remembrance Sunday and 100 years since the signing of the Armistice that would lead to the end of the First World War.
More than 100 wreaths were laid at the poignant service, organised by Legion Scotland, outside Edinburgh City Chambers, to remember those who have fallen in conflicts. Sir Alistair Irwin, the President of Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland, read Binyon’s Lines after the bugler had played the Last Post.
The First Minister said: “The Scottish Parliament is a symbol of democracy in Scotland and it is an important moment to remember that we owe that democracy to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts across that last century. It is an important way for those of us in this generation to say thank you and to resolve never to forget.”
Sir Alistair said: “All Remembrance Sundays are important, but this year’s is particularly special and, indeed, unique. For Sunday 11 November 2018 is also the centenary of the Armistice. This combination will never recur.
“Quite rightly, we are remembering all those who sacrificed so much a century ago when our world changed forever. But in remembering the First World War today it is very important that we include in our thoughts all those men and women who have served and suffered in conflicts in the 100 years that followed. They are as important to all of us as those who fell in the Great War. Today is a day of great emotion and very rightly so. We will remember them.”
Claire Armstrong, operations manager for Legion Scotland, added: “The last fortnight has seen a programme of events which have been both uplifting and poignant, as local communities, local authority representatives and members of the Armed Forces community have joined together to reflect and show their gratitude to all those who have served and sacrificed. This year has added significance as it concludes on the day 100 years ago that saw the signing of the Armistice which brought about the end of the First World War.”
Following the service, a procession left from St Giles’ Cathedral, and made its way to the steps of the Scottish National War Memorial, Edinburgh Castle, where a Drumhead Service was held.
