Kuwait English School commemorates ‘day of remembrance’
KUWAIT CITY, Nov 9: No School day anywhere in the world could have commenced with a more touching atmosphere of silent and respectful anticipation than that of Kuwait English School when some 1,600 students of ages 7 to 18 years convened in the School grounds to commemorate this special day traditionally held annually on Nov 11.
This day is one for remembering and appreciating people of all countries, races and creeds who have given their lives in the cause of peace. The occasion served as a potent reminder sewn in the minds and hearts of the students that one of the most important contributions each one of them can make in their future is to be a broker for peace — to be a peacemaker.
Both staff members and KES students were pleased to welcome Brigadier Andrew Barr CBE as the honoured guest of the ceremony. Brigadier Barr appropriately addressed the students giving them both reminders of the significance of the occasion and presenting these ever memorable and touching words:
“They shall grow not old as we who are left grow old.
Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn”.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”
He also read the poem ‘In Flanders Fields’.
“Short days ago we lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, loved and were loved, and now we lie, in Flanders Fields” (extract)
Following the School band’s superb rendering of the National Anthem, the School Director, Mrs Rhoda Elizabeth Muhmood MBE, as well as welcoming the honoured guest to the ceremony extended words of welcome to Muhmood E. Muhmood, School Manager, the High School Principal, Mrs Janet Carew and Liam McLoughlin, Head Teacher Years 3 – 6.
Mrs Janet Carew delivered a touching and thought-provoking address which included: “Because they lost so much ... and because they gave everything ... we should thank them and always remember”. Steven Tarry, KES Band Master, sensitively played ‘The Last Post’, as is customary, on the Trumpet symbolically signifying the commencement of the traditional 2 minutes of silence. The Head Boy, Kunal Pinto and Head Girl, Sara Bin Yussuf ensured that the National flag of Kuwait was lowered with dignity and raised again when the ‘Reveille’ was played to break the silence.
Before the departure of the students to their classes, the School Director along with Mrs Carew and Muhmood accompanied Brigadier Barr as he walked among the Senior High School students being interested to exchange words with a number of them ; it was evident from their shining and eager faces that the students were both appreciative and impressed to respond to Brigadier Barr’s comments and questions
Indeed a very significant day of Remembrance leaving all present with some indelible memories.