Unity, Shared Past and History: Service Begins Remembrance Cup
The Remembrance Cup between The Royal Artillery and St Mary’s University kicked off with a respected and well-attended Remembrance service this morning. It featured rugby matches between the men’s and women’s teams of both sides.
Commemorative Service Highlights
Before the matches, all players gathered for a ceremonial service. The program included hymns, prayers, and scripture readings, culminating in a two-minute silence at 11 a.m. Two wreaths were then laid beside a remembrance cross.
Colonel Martin Wells’ Family Legacy
One wreath was placed by Colonel Martin Wells, chair of Royal Artillery Rugby and an 18-year military veteran. His family’s military tradition spans generations:
- Great-grandfather served in World War I army
- Grandfather worked in the fire service during World War II
- Father joined the Royal Air Force in the mid-1960s
“Occasions like this are very, very poignant. They are always special occasions. You reflect on things you have done or people you have lost in the past.” – Colonel Martin Wells
Significance of the Event
Colonel Wells emphasized the importance of uniting organisations such as the Royal Artillery and academic institutions like St Mary’s University for meaningful events like the Remembrance Cup.
Author's summary: The Remembrance Cup strengthens bonds through tribute and sport, honoring a shared history and memories of service across generations.