Hundreds of students and staff from Telford College took part in the annual remembrance parade and commemoration today, to honour the service and sacrifice of all those who have defended our freedoms.
The parade at the Wellington campus was led by the college’s public uniformed services students, and included representatives from the British Army reserves, Royal Marines, West Mercia Police, and Shropshire Fire & Rescue Service.
The royal family was represented by the Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire, Anna Turner, and guests were welcomed by Telford College vice principal for curriculum, Robert Lees.
The parade, which was also lived streamed to students at Telford College’s new sixth form campus in the town centre, was led by public uniformed services student Jessica Speed.
Chris Wood played The Last Post and Reveille, and serving members of the uniformed services and public services students read the Kohima Epitaph: “When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today.”
A two-minute silence was observed across the college to show respect for those who lost their lives in defence of the country.
Speaking to the students and staff, Anna Turner said: “As the King’s representative in Shropshire, I want to say a huge thank you to all for showing this respect to those that fell for our freedom.”
Amy Yorke, Telford College’s director of health, care and service industries, said: “Remembrance gives us an opportunity to reflect on the courage and selflessness of those who gave their lives so that future generations could live in freedom and democracy.
“It is incredibly important that young people understand the significance of that sacrifice and the values it represents.
“We are extremely grateful to all the dignitaries, service personnel and guests who helped make today’s commemoration so special, and I am particularly proud of our students for the respect, dignity and maturity they showed throughout the event.
“Their conduct was a wonderful reflection of the values we uphold as a college community.”
