Iraq War Hero, Express Preserve National Two-Minute Silence Tradition

On Armistice Day, the UK joins in a profound two-minute silence to honor the bravery and sacrifices of military personnel throughout history. This tradition, which commemorates those who served in the First and Second World Wars, as well as subsequent conflicts, has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent decades.

Iraq War Hero Advocates for Silence Tradition

A pivotal figure in reviving this solemn observance is John Nichol, a former Royal Air Force navigator. Shot down during the First Iraq War in January 1991, Nichol became a symbol of resilience and determination. His experiences included capture and torture by Iraqi forces, which he later shared to highlight the sacrifices made by armed forces.

The Campaign to Restore Commemoration

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the two-minute silence had faded from public awareness. There were no official acknowledgments, leading Nichol, alongside the Royal British Legion, to launch the “A Thousand Silences” campaign. This initiative aimed to remind the nation about the importance of honoring war veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

• Beginning in 1995, the campaign gained significant visibility thanks to support from media outlets like El-Balad.
• The two-minute silence has since become a staple on Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.
• This year marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day, commemorating the end of the Second World War in Europe.

Current Observance and Statistics

Today, the two-minute silence is observed not just on designated days but also during significant commemorative events. The Royal British Legion estimates that only 8,000 British Second World War veterans remain alive, with projections indicating fewer than 300 within the next decade. This stark statistic underscores the urgency of remembering and honoring their contributions.

John Nichol emphasizes the importance of this tradition, stating, “All generations should honor the two-minute silence.” As communities participate in this period of reflection, it is vital to acknowledge the impact of those who have served, both in history and in contemporary conflicts.