Andrew has posted a message in the run up to Remembrance Day this coming Sunday, in the message Andrew speaks of his personal disappointment at not being able to attend a ceremony this year.
The message was emailed to several community groups, organisers and churches as well as being posted on social media earlier today.
Andrew said,
"Due to changing guidance on acts of Remembrance this weekend, I will no longer be attending the events I had planned to.
This is a very difficult time and I know many people will feel strongly and may be very upset that we cannot mark remembrance as we usually. As a veteran with family and friends who have and still serve, I understand and share those feelings.
However, it is important that we do what we can to mark remembrance safely and within the rules so as to protect life.
Therefore, this weekend I will be attending and laying my wreath at a quiet, private ceremony at Skene Church and not at one of the, usual, large scale, public acts of Remembrance.
This year, more than ever, it is important that we remember our service personnel, their families and honour those who fell for the freedoms we enjoy today.
The sacrifices they gave for us puts into perspective the difficult sacrifices we are enduring to ensure life and liberty will return. And so, this year, whilst it will be different, and for many difficult, we must never forget.
More relevant than ever, I think we will, this weekend, reflect on the words of the Kohima Epitaph,
"When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today."
We will Remember Them.
