This Sunday, 15 Explorer Scouts from across Wales will take part in the National Remembrance Day Parade at the Cenotaph in London. Representing their peers and communities, these young people will join the national act of remembrance to honour those who have served – and continue to serve – in the Armed Forces.
They’ll be accompanied by ScoutsCymru Chief Volunteer, Jon Williams, Lowri Williams, Wales Youth Lead, Rizik Salhab, Area Youth Lead for Cardiff and Vale and CEO Kerrie Gemmill, as they stand together in quiet reflection, remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
“It is an honour to march past the Cenotaph this Remembrance Day, representing ScoutsCymru and joining 15 remarkable young people from across Wales in reflecting on the sacrifices of generations before us.
My grandfather, David Rodger, served as a Leading Aircraftman with the Royal Australian Air Force from 1941 to 1949, standing watch over Papua New Guinea as an Airforce Guard. His service and courage are part of my family’s legacy and to join with young people this Remembrance Day not only commemorates the past but inspires all of us to carry forward the ideals of peace, tolerance, gratitude, and service.”
Among those marching is Polly, from Wild Wolves Explorer Unit, who will walk in memory of her great-grandfather, Sergeant Keith Brown. Captured during World War II, he survived three years as a prisoner of war in Southeast Asia, only realising he was free when he woke up to find the gates of the camp open. His story, like so many others, is a powerful reminder of courage, resilience, and hope. You can read the full story on the ScoutsCymru website on Sunday.
ScoutsCymru is proud to be a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant – a promise that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated with fairness, respect, and recognition of the unique sacrifices they have made. Through our work with young people, we are committed to creating inclusive, supportive environments that uphold those values every day.
In a world that can still feel uncertain and divided, taking part in remembrance means so much more than marking history. It’s a moment to reaffirm the importance of unity, respect and service to others, all principles that lie at the heart of Scouting and guide how we help young people grow into responsible, compassionate citizens. Being part of scouting in Wales and experiencing events such as Remembrance Day, our young people are encouraged to explore the past with curiosity and care, to question what they’re being told and read today, examine different perspectives, and draw their own informed conclusions. These are skills that matter, not only in understanding history, but in shaping a more thoughtful, fairer future.
By marching in the National Parade, these Explorers are stepping forward as a new generation determined to build a better, more understanding world. They remind us that remembrance is a tradition that should not be forgotten but also a call to live out its values in the way we treat others, lead in our communities, and work together for peace.
