British Embassy in Bahrain Marks Remembrance Sunday
The British Embassy in Manama held its annual Remembrance Sunday service to honour the memory of servicemen, women, and civilians who lost their lives in conflicts past and present.
The solemn ceremony, hosted by British Ambassador to Bahrain Alastair Long, took place at the Embassy premises and included a wreath-laying ceremony, prayers, and a two-minute silence in tribute to the fallen. Among those attending were Ambassador Shaikh Abdulla bin Ali Al Khalifa, Director-General of Bilateral Relations at Bahrain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomats, faith leaders, military personnel, schoolchildren, and members of the expatriate community.
A piper’s lament concluded the moving service, which served as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice made by those who fought for peace.
Remembrance Day, also known as Armistice Day or Poppy Day, is observed worldwide on and around November 11 — marking the moment in 1918 when the guns fell silent on the Western Front, ending the First World War. Every year, a two-minute silence is observed at 11 a.m. to remember all who perished in global conflicts.
This year’s commemoration in Bahrain carries special significance, marking the 80th anniversary of key historical milestones — including Victory in Europe (VE) Day, Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the founding of the United Nations.
Reflecting on the occasion, Ambassador Long said:
“As we gather to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who served in times of war, we also mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War — a moment that reshaped our world. Humanity, having been brought to its lowest point, found common cause to build institutions for peace and progress. Remembrance gives us a chance to remember the horrors of war, the sacrifices made, and the importance of recommitting ourselves to peace and shared responsibility.”
Lieutenant Colonel Simon Cole, Defence Attaché at the British Embassy, added:
“Remembrance Sunday is a solemn occasion to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in defence of freedom. These anniversaries remind us of the enduring role of defence in preserving peace and the importance of international partnerships in preventing future wars.”
Many attendees wore the symbolic red poppy — the flower that first bloomed on the battlefields of World War I — representing remembrance and hope for peace.
As in previous years, the British Embassy continues to support the Royal British Legion’s Remembrance campaign, maintaining the UK’s enduring engagement with the global act of remembrance.
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