We will remember

This week, we joined together as communities across Gwent to remember the ultimate sacrifice made by so many men and women in service to our country.

They died so that we may be free. We thank you, and we will never forget.

As well as commemorating those who died, we also paid tribute to those who have served and continue to serve in the armed forces. I was both moved and humbled to speak with many serving members of the army, navy and air force, and thank them for their service.

Most of us will never know the horrors and hardships that they must face in their line of duty. It is important that we recognise the many sacrifices they have made to keep us all safe.

Beginning with the launch of Gwent’s Poppy Appeal in Blackwood at the end of October, I was fortunate to join residents for Remembrance events in Caerphilly, Newport, and Cwmbran.

I also attended a special service in Cardiff to mark the contribution made by our ethnic heritage servicemen and women, a service that is so often forgotten.

These important events could not happen without the hard work and dedication of volunteers. I must pay tribute to the many volunteers from the Royal British Legion for organising these events and keeping Remembrance at the forefront of our minds at this time of year.

What struck me most during these events was the sense of solidarity and cohesion between people of different ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds who had come together to remember.

At a time when there are people who are actively trying to sow the seeds of disruption, division, and discontent in our society, Remembrance remains an increasingly rare, shared moment of collective unity. It cuts across divides, acts as a bridge between the generations and brings us together in shared reflection and gratitude.

It reminds us all of our common humanity, our shared experience, and that we really are stronger when we stand together.