A REMEMBRANCE service took place at 11:00am on Monday (Nov 11) at Freshwater West Bay, South Pembrokeshire, marking a poignant tribute to those who served in the First World War. Local residents and school children gathered by the bay’s WW1 Memorial Cross to honour the fallen on Armistice Day.

The memorial, designed by architect John Coates Carter FRIBA, stands on a headland overlooking Freshwater West Bay, casting a solemn figure against the rugged coastal landscape. The gritstone cavalry cross, carved in late Gothic style, rests on an octagonal column that rises from two steps. The upper step bears inscriptions, while the lower is fashioned as a seat for reflection.

The memorial is a striking symbol of remembrance, inscribed with “INRI,” and remains in good condition despite the passage of time.

(Pics: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

MILFORD HAVEN’S residents gathered in a heartfelt tribute to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice, with the annual Remembrance Service and Parade drawing a strong turnout at the town’s cenotaph. Organised by Milford Haven Town Council and the British Legion, the event brought together veterans, service personnel, local organisations, and residents in a powerful display of remembrance and community spirit.

The Milford Haven Town Band led the parade, playing hymns to mark the solemn occasion, with Chaplain Steve Traynor, Father Andrew, and Rev Nicola from St Katharine and St Peter’s Church leading the service. In a moving testament to the town’s dedication, a total of 85 wreaths were laid by various community organisations and individuals, from schools and youth groups to local services and community clubs.

Cllr Mark Woodward of Milford Haven Town Council expressed his gratitude: “Thank you to all the organisations and public who turned out for the Remembrance Service today. Milford has done us proud once again.”

Young people were at the heart of the commemorations, with Milford Haven School students, led by Head Prefects Chloe and Zak and Deputy Headteacher Mr John, taking part in the wreath-laying ceremony. The school highlighted the respect shown by pupils across all years during Remembrance assemblies, thanking staff and ambassadors for raising awareness and coordinating poppy sales throughout the week. “We are so proud of the pupils’ decorum and respect,” the school shared, adding, “Milford Haven School remembers.”

Milford Youth Matters volunteers, Logan, Charlie, Ruby, Ethan, Jacky, and Ollie, joined the commemorations, representing the youth with dignity. The group expressed their appreciation for all who attended and those who continue to serve. “Well done, you represented yourselves, MYM, and young people to the highest standard,” they said, extending their thanks to all uniformed groups and service personnel.

Local clubs, including Milford Haven RFC, also paid their respects, with committee members, coaches, and young players gathering at the cenotaph. A statement from the club read, “Lest We Forget,” underscoring the shared commitment of Milford Haven’s residents to remember those who sacrificed for future generations.

The Milford Haven community’s united presence at the Remembrance Service stands as a testament to the town’s enduring respect and gratitude for those who served.

THE Remembrance Sunday Parade and Act of Remembrance took place today (Sunday, Nov 10) in St Davids, gathering the community to pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in service.

The ceremony began as participants assembled outside Oriel Y Parc at 10:25am. Marching down the High Street, the parade proceeded to Cross Square, where members of the 14th Signal Regiment (EW) came to a halt, turning towards the Old Cross to begin the solemn act.

Individuals laying wreaths joined the parade or gathered at the Memorial Gardens entrance next to the pharmacy, offering a moment to honour lost loved ones and fallen heroes. Observers were invited to witness the proceedings from vantage points while respectfully maintaining a clear distance from the Garden of Remembrance.

Following a two-minute silence, the bugler sounded “Reveille,” after which the Marshal paid tribute with the words, “The Legion of the Living salutes the Legion of the Dead.” Once again, the crowd responded: “We will not break faith with ye.”

The ceremony continued with an anthem sung by the Cathedral choir, adding a poignant close to the tribute. The parade then proceeded down The Pebbles to the Cathedral, where a Service of Remembrance took place.

Organisers reminded participants and the public to remain in place as the marching contingent departed from Cross Square, ensuring the parade moved in an orderly and respectful manner.

The community was also asked to remove vehicles from the High Street, Cross Square, and Pebbles area by 9:00am to allow for the smooth procession of the parade.

The ceremony was a moving reminder of the courage and sacrifice made by countless men and women, with the people of St Davids coming together to affirm that their memory will endure.

(Image: Philip Walker/Facebook)