THE heart of Basingstoke came to a standstill on Sunday as a somber hush fell over the town, echoing the collective respect of hundreds who gathered to pay homage to fallen soldiers on Remembrance Sunday.
Residents, civic leaders, and councillors, alongside veterans and military personnel, convened at the War Memorial on Sunday, November 12, to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who dedicated their lives to service.
The poignant ceremony began with a solemn parade, commencing from Market Place and winding its way through the historic Top of the Town to the War Memorial.
The service, presided over by Mayor’s Chaplain Revd Steve McKay, brought together members of the military, emergency services, and various organisations.
The parade, under the guidance of RAF Odiham warrant officer Curtis Dixon and masterfully hosted by John Griffiths MBE CStJ MC Para, drew the attention of loved ones and Basingstoke residents alike.
At 11am, a Chinook from RAF Odiham soared above the War Memorial, a poignant gesture paying tribute to the fallen soldiers.
The atmosphere was further enriched by the stirring musical accompaniment of The Salvation Army band and the choral contributions of the Basingstoke Male Voice Choir.
The event, supported by the Royal British Legion (Basingstoke and Overton) and RAF Odiham, saw wreaths laid by distinguished figures including Lady Louisa Portal MBE, representing the Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Basingstoke and Deane Mayor David Leeks, Basingstoke MP Dame Maria Miller, and Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council leader Paul Harvey.
Other notable participants in the wreath-laying ceremony included Royal Air Force Odiham wing commander Daniel Spencer-Healey, Royal British Legion Basingstoke and Overton branch president Colonel (Retd) Dudley Wall MSM MMM, Hampshire Constabulary’s Basingstoke district commander chief inspector Scott Johnson, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service crew manager Rhys Dodds, as well as representatives from various community associations, societies, faiths, and non-faith groups.
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