Sunderland College marks Remembrance Day in poignant service
“It’s important that their sacrifices are not forgotten”
Staff and students at Sunderland College’s Bede Campus, on Durham Road, were joined by veterans and members of the community on Wednesday, November 11 to mark Remembrance Day.
The morning began with a parade by students studying the college’s uniformed public service (UPS) course before a number of speeches, a two-minute silence and the laying of wreaths.
Mike Chapman, Sunderland College’s Bede Campus principal, said: “The people that have sacrificed themselves in the various conflicts that have happened in the past, but that are also happening right now, play a really important role in protecting our way of life and our freedoms, and that is something that, in the day-to-day humdrum of life, is possibly something we maybe take for granted.
“Days like this are a real opportunity for us all to sit back and reflect on that for a moment and think, I owe these people a huge debt of gratitude and that is something I should be conscious of.
“It is also a time for ensuring our behaviours and how we interact within society is really positive and creates that inclusive society that all of those people have fought so bravely for.”
Sunderland College student Dan Cummings, who as a student on the college’s UPS course took part in the parade, said: “When I was growing up, my grandad would tell me stories about being in the army. He lost a couple of friends in Germany.
“It is being able to remember and understand the sacrifices they made - and all the trauma.
“Even veterans who come home. What happened doesn’t go away after a few weeks, it stays with you for the rest of your life.”
Sehar Azhar, also a student on the UPS course, said: “It’s important to remember them as they died protecting us.
“It’s important that their sacrifices are not forgotten.”
Sunderland College’s curriculum manager for the UPS added: “To the veterans within our college community, thank you for your service.
“Each of you brings your own memories to this day.
“The people you served alongside, the friendships you formed and the experiences that shaped you.
“We recognise your commitments and the sacrifices made by you and your families.
“Today, we stand alongside you in remembrance.”