PICTURES: Parade and public brave the elements for Thurso’s Remembrance Day event
Parade members stood firm despite torrential downpours at yesterday’s Remembrance Sunday event at Thurso’s war memorial.
Rev David Malcolm conducted the service and urged participants to “remember before God” those who have died for their country in war.
Speaking to the parade and members of the public, he said: “We stand today at this war memorial, surrounded by the echoes of history and the silent reminders of sacrifice by many.
“This war memorial, these names etched in metal, are more than just symbols – they are testaments to the courage, the love, and the ultimate sacrifice of men who answered a call that was greater than themselves.
“When we consider the lives commemorated here, we must remember the enormity of what they gave up. They were sons, brothers, lovers and fathers. They had dreams, hopes, and futures that they were willingly set aside in the face of conflict. Their sacrifices were not just acts of duty but acts of profound love for their country, their comrades, communities and for the generations that would follow for you and for me.
“It is our solemn duty to remember them – not only on days like today but every day.”
Lord Thurso officiated at the event in his role as the Lord-Lieutenant of Caithness and spoke after the parade as he made his way to the church service. “I’ve been at Remembrance parades here in Thurso in bright sunshine, bitter cold and stormy rain but we come out every time regardless of the weather to pay our tribute to those who gave their lives for their country.”
Lord Thurso said that he has officiated at Remembrance Sunday parades since 2017 in his official role and alternates between Wick and Thurso. “My last one will be in three years time when I retire from the position.”
Simon Middlemas helped with the various organisation laying wreaths at the war memorial in his position with the Royal British Legion Scotland (Thurso branch). “I think it all went very well,” he said after the event.
“It’s great to see so many people turn out on such a rubbish day as this.”
Jackie Dodds, Fisherman’s Mission area officer for Caithness and Orkney based at Scrabster, said: “I’m always honoured to come here for Remembrance Sunday as we’ve lost so many good people to wars.
“I laid a wreath in memory of those lost at sea and in battles. We shall never forget them and their sacrifice which has meant that we have freedom.”
