The Duchess of Cornwall has officially opened the Field of Remembrance at Westminster. For the first time in its 92 year history, the annual act of commemoration will be closed to the public making this November’s unveiling even more poignant.
The Field of Remembrance is a way for everyone to remember those who gave their lives in service of their country and traditionally opens on the Thursday before Remembrance Sunday. However, with a new lockdown starting in England on that very day, the opening came on Wednesday November 4th 2020 with the Duchess of Cornwall paying tribute on behalf of the Royal Family.
The Field of Remembrance is organised by the Poppy Factory of which Camilla is patron. The organisation provides employment support to wounded veterans.
Every year, plots of poppies are planted out around St. Margaret’s Church in the shadow of Westminster Abbey and each is a personal tribute to someone killed in action. Every plot is marked for a regimental or armed services organisation. The poppies are on wooden mounts, many of them shaped like crosses.
The Duchess of Cornwall walked through the Field of Remembrance, reading some of the messages written in memory of those who have died. A short service, marking the opening of this year’s tribute, took place with a two minute silence and prayers forming part of the ceremony. Camilla also planted her own Cross of Remembrance during her visit.
The first Field of Remembrance was opened in 1928 with just two crosses. This year, over 60,000 memorials will be planted. For many years, the Queen Mother oversaw the opening of the Field of Remembrance. Following her death, in 2002, the Duke of Edinburgh took on the responsibility with the Duke of Sussex carrying out the opening for the past few years.
Although the Field is closed this year, because of the lockdown, the Poppy Factory is providing a virtual tour on its website. All the proceeds from the Field of Remembrance are given to the Legion’s Poppy Appeal and the Legion also has a virtual Field of Remembrance on its own website where tributes and donations can be made.
