The Prince of Wales is set to deliver a powerful video message directly to the young people of Britain today, explaining the profound importance of wearing a poppy to mark Armistice Day.
A Royal Address for Remembrance
In a special assembly organised by the Royal British Legion, Prince William will speak to children across the nation. The event, taking place this morning, is designed for youngsters aged between 9 and 14 years old, who will be watching from schools, libraries, and various educational settings throughout the UK.
The Prince is expected to frame remembrance as a vital act for everyone. He will say, ‘Armistice Day is an important time for us to stop and reflect – it is a reminder that remembrance is for everyone.’ He will elaborate that the act of remembering allows people to connect personally with service and sacrifice, drawing lessons in empathy, resilience, and responsibility from the courage of others.
Drawing on Personal Military Experience
Leveraging his own seven years of service in the Army and Royal Air Force, the Prince will provide a unique perspective. He will highlight his first-hand observations of the dedication shown by the armed forces.
‘Through my own military experience, as well as through my work in connection with units across the Royal Navy, the Army and the Royal Air Force,’ William will say, ‘I have seen first-hand the hard work, dedication and duty the armed forces carry out to ensure we are protected.’
His message will extend beyond historical conflicts, acknowledging present-day servicemen and women. ‘Even today, as we continue to face a number of conflicts across the world, we honour those who have gone before us, and those who are serving now,’ he will state, affirming that their memories and lives matter.
How to Watch the Remembrance Assembly
Young people, along with their parents and teachers, are invited to view the prince’s video message online. The assembly will be broadcast on YouTube and Zoom from 10.25am today.
A central part of the event will be the observation of a two-minute silence at 11am, a tradition held every year on November 11 to mark the end of the First World War. While Armistice Day is fixed on this date, Remembrance Sunday, which honours those killed in both World Wars and subsequent conflicts, fell on the second Sunday of November.
Prince William’s closing words are a poignant call to action: ‘When we wear a red poppy or take a moment of silence, we are saying, ‘Thank you. We have not forgotten, and we will not forget.’
