Commemorating the start of World War I: Drumhead Service, Edinburgh 10 August 2014
On 10 August, a unique and moving Drumhead Service is going to be held at Edinburgh Castle to commemorate the start of the First World War 100 years ago. Over 50 people will represent Dumfries and Galloway at this service including a number of young people. They will join others from communities from all over Scotland. Members of the public now have the opportunity to apply for tickets to join in this special occasion.
The Drumhead Service marks the start of the Scottish programme to commemorate the Centenary of the First World War. This event is being organised by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The intention is to involve all sections of the Scottish community in an event which sets an appropriate tone at the start of the commemorative period. Dumfries and Galloway will be sending representatives to be part of this commemoration.
It is an event for the communities of Scotland which will reflect the various moods and emotions in August 1914 of those enlisting for military service and those left behind. It will remember the role and sacrifice of Scottish servicemen and servicewomen. It will also encourage a spirit of inquiry and research about the broad impact of the war and its lasting social and civic legacy – an important aim for all the commemorative period. It is also hoped that it will encourage young people to learn about the significance of the war, likewise an ambition for the centenary as a whole.
After the Service, the Tri-Service contingents on Parade will ‘March as to War’ down the Royal Mile to Holyrood Park. The congregation will also have the opportunity to process down the Royal Mile if they would like to. In Holyrood Park, there will be an opportunity to place personal or community markers at the Memorial of 145 replicas of Commonwealth War Grave Commission headstones.
Members of the public who would like to apply for one of the 1000 tickets that are available for this First World War Service can do so by applying online at www.WW100Scotland.com
More information about the Scottish Commemorations Programme can be found at: www.scotland.gov.uk/About/Review/WW1-Commemoration-Panel
Council Veterans Champion, Cllr Archie Dryburgh said “World War 1 affected our region with many women and men giving their lives or suffering serious injury during the war effort. This commemorative service is an opportunity for all Scottish communities to come together to pay their respects and to reflect together. It will be an honour to be part of it. I would encourage anyone interested in attending to apply for tickets so that they too can join in this unique commemoration at Edinburgh.”
Main Photo , Kirkcudbright War Memorial , Copyright R.B Photography
