WATCH: Poppy Day a reminder of soldiers’ sacrifice
“The commemoration of Remembrance Day is more relevant than ever, as conflicts and war continue to threaten peaceful existence of mankind.”
“He who fought beside me is my brother”.
This is the sentiment held by members of the Memorable Order of Tin Hats (MOTH) as they joined learners and faculty, past and present of Benoni High School (BHS), at the 105th Remembrance Day Celebration, often referred to a Poppy day, on November 10.
As Grade Eight learners took their seats, Martin Offord watched as the learners carefully pinned poppies to their uniforms.
“Whether it is on social media or mainstream media networks, we are constantly bombarded with images of war and conflict,” said Offord.
“Images of landscapes ravaged by the atrocities of war have the ability of desensitising us to the impact that these conflicts have not only on those involved but how it may change the course of life.
“It is therefore vital that we continue to commemorate this day of remembrance in order for the youth to look at the past and acknowledge the sacrifice of soldiers that stepped onto the battlefields. By learning from history we can create a future where peace can prosper.”
The drone of the Benoni Pipe Band signified the start of the proceedings, to celebrate the legacy of the 37 fallen BHS soldiers.
Delivering the invocation, Pastor Ryan Capazario, said that wars are not always fought on battlefields.
“We are faced with wars on a daily basis,” said Capazario.
“These may be onslaughts on our values or beliefs but by remembering the past, we can learn from our forefather’s thus making choices for the betterment of mankind.”
He continued by saying that the valour of those who have gone before should be the bedrock future generations strive for.
“They paid with their lives, the onus lies with us to make a difference,” he said.
Taking the podium, Dr Eugene Rooyakkers said that world leaders are not setting a positive example for the youth to aspire to.
“The world is not in a good place and ongoing conflict is threatening the fabric of humanity,” said Rooyakkers.
“Although we are drowning in news of doom and gloom, I call on parents and adults to look beyond the differences which could dived us, but rather foster an attitude of peace which could wash over the youth.”
With heads bowed, those in attendance observed two minutes of silence as the Last Post echoed across the school grounds, paying homage to those who never returned as well as those who lived to tell the tale.
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