(Kampala) – The British High Commission in Uganda recently hosted the annual Service of Remembrance to honor Ugandan soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. This event is part of a long standing tradition observed in Commonwealth countries to pay tribute to military personnel who died in the line of duty.
The service, held at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Bugolobi, recognized the sacrifices made by over 17,000 soldiers from Uganda’s King’s African Rifles (KAR) who participated in the First World War. These soldiers played a crucial role during the war, and the ceremony aimed to ensure their bravery and sacrifice were not forgotten.
Brigadier General James Kinalwa, representing General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defense Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF), laid the first wreath. This was followed by the UK High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney MBE, who also paid her respects by laying a wreath. The event was attended by several ambassadors and heads of foreign missions, further underscoring the significance of the occasion.
The ceremony included a prayer for the departed soldiers, the playing of national anthems from both Uganda and Britain, and a moment of reflection on the fallen heroes. The Uganda Peoples’ Defense Forces (UPDF) military band played ceremonial music to enhance the solemn atmosphere.
Following the service, a luncheon was hosted by the British High Commissioner, H.E. Lisa Chesney, and the British Defense Advisor, Lieutenant Colonel Ash Wiseman. The gathering provided an opportunity for attendees to further reflect on the sacrifices of the soldiers and the strong historical ties between Uganda and the United Kingdom.
Remembrance Day, also known as Poppy Day, is observed annually to honor armed forces members who died in the line of duty during World War I and subsequent conflicts. It is marked on November 11 to recall the moment when hostilities ended at 11:00 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918. The signing of the Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919, formally ended the First World War.
