On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month every year Britain and commonwealth countries across the globe stop and pay their respects to the sacrifices made by the armed forces in past and present conflicts.
Armistice day originates from the aftermath of World War I where king George V at Buckingham palace dedicated a day to remember the millions of servicemen who died during that terrible war. The 11th hour tradition signifies the end of World War I that was brought about by the armistice at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month 1918 when, after four years of unrelenting warfare, the guns stopped.
Since this time a Sunday service of remembrance is held near the date of Armistice Day every year in Britain with the selling of red poppies symbolising the dedication and bravery of the men and women of the armed forces.
Observe the silence at 11 am today and remember the members of the armed forces who have served in past wars and who are currently engaged in conflicts overseas.
