PICTURES: Message of ‘peace, justice and unity’ on Remembrance Sunday in Wick
The freedom enjoyed by post-war generations came at a cost, those attending the Remembrance Sunday service at Wick war memorial were told.
Kevin Stewart, chaplain of the Wick, Canisbay and Latheron branch of Legion Scotland, delivered a message of “peace, justice and unity” as a large crowd turned out in the rain to pay their respects to those who gave their lives in two world wars and other conflicts.
At 11am a rocket signalled the start of a two-minute silence that was disturbed only the siren of a distant emergency vehicle.
Wick RBLS Pipe Band led the parade to the memorial where Willie Watt, Vice-Lieutenant of Caithness, laid the first wreath on behalf of the Crown.
Other wreaths were laid by the Royal British Legion Scotland, Highland Council, local uniformed organisations, emergency services and schools.
Mr Stewart is an ex-frontline soldier whose goal is to enter the army chaplaincy after completing his Christian theology degree through the Highland Theological College.
“Let us pause to honour the bravery of those who gave their lives in the service of peace and freedom,” he said.
“Each name on this wall behind me [on the war memorial] represents a legacy of courage, selflessness and dedication to something far greater than oneself.
“Let us remember that the freedom we enjoy today was not free – it was built on the courage and the sacrifice of the men and women who, in moments of uncertainty and fear, choose to stand firm.
“Their resilience in the face of overwhelming odds teaches us that true strength lies not in power but in the willingness to serve and protect others, even at the cost of their own lives.
“Remembrance is more than recalling the past. It’s a call to reflect on how we live today.
“As we honour the fallen, we are reminded to pursue peace, justice and unity within our community of Caithness.
“May we carry the memory of the fallen, not only in our ceremonies here, but also in our actions, seeking to build a world worthy of their sacrifice.
“Let us never forget their bravery, and may we continue to pass this legacy on to the future generations.”
Mr Stewart gave a scripture reading and led prayers before a rendition of God Save the King.
Decorative poppies made by S3 woodwork pupils at Wick High School added to the occasion as they were displayed in the area around the war memorial.
Afterwards, at the Remembrance Sunday service in St Fergus Church, Mr Stewart’s sermon was based on the SAS ethos of humility, self-discipline and integrity, with no sense of social class and an unrelenting individual pursuit of excellence.
He served in the 23 SAS Regiment (Reserve) from 2003 to 2006.
Services followed at the HMS Exmouth memorial plaque, the Seafarers Memorial, the war graves section of Wick cemetery and at the Ackergill and Hempriggs war memorial.
At the war graves, Mr Stewart said: “We gather here in solemn remembrance of those who lie before us, men and women who gave everything in the service of peace and freedom.
“In this sacred place, we honour their courage, their sacrifice, and the lives they willingly laid down for others.
“We remember them not just as soldiers but as fathers, mothers, sons and daughters who loved, dreamed and lived fully.
“Lord, may these hallowed grounds be a lasting reminder of the cost of war and the preciousness of peace.”
