At the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month, the Two Minute Silence is observed on Armistice Day, the day which marks the end of the First World War.

The Royal British Legion has always supported the traditional Remembrance Sunday services and the customary Two Minute Silence on that day. As the national custodian of Remembrance, the Legion also believes that when 11 November (Armistice Day) falls on days other than Sundays — on working days —Remembrance should be brought into the everyday life of the nation on those days as well.

The revival of support for the observance of this demonstrates that, despite the passing of the years and the declining number of veterans, the nation still feels strongly about Remembrance.

Remembrance transcends all boundaries. The Legion seeks a small yet important individual and collective act, a rare moment when the nation can stand together and reflect on the price of freedom. That price is still being paid. More than 12,000 British Servicemen and women have been killed or injured on active service since 1945.

"If we are to maintain our peace and freedom,
we must always remember."

Poppy Launch Belfast City Hall 2024

The Northern Ireland Support Group had a hugely successful Poppy Appeal Launch at the City Hall, Belfast on Friday 25th October 2024. The National Chair had indicated that he wished for the event to be a success, showing The Royal British Legion was very much alive in Northern Ireland.

Our President Colonel N Salisbury OBE (Ret’d) gave very fitting commentary during the event on the necessity for today’s support from the Poppy Appeal to our Veterans and Beneficiaries. He also had the privilege of supplying a Poppy to the Lord Mayor of Belfast.

The task of organising the event was given to Comrade Mark McLaughlin, Branch Liaison Officer (North), dedicated many hours to ensuring the event was successful. Ninety guests attended on the day with representation from the Tri-Services, His Majesty’s Lieutenancy Offices, Civic Councils, Civilian Services, RBL Branches and other organisations.

Several of our Standard Bearers and Parade Marshalls were in attendance, as were a Bugler and Piper which added positively to the occasion.

This was a first for this event. We were pleased to have representation at national level with Judith Reay joining us on the day.

We also welcomed the Blackthorn Rugby Team who the RBL sponsored their Kit.

Armistice Day