Political opinion with Kieran Mullan MP: From the Commons to the Commonwealth War Graves: Standing Together in Remembrance

It is a time when we take a solemn moment to honour the extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and service of those who gave everything so that we might enjoy the freedoms and privileges we hold today. From the battlefields of the past to the quiet corners of our towns today, their legacy lives on in our lives, our democracy, and in the peace we so often take for granted. This is not just about looking back. It is about recognising the enduring impact of their bravery and reaffirming our commitment to remember them, always.

This year, I was deeply moved to attend the Remembrance Sunday service in Battle, where residents came together in quiet reflection. One of the most striking tributes was the town’s Wall of Poppies – a vibrant and poignant installation created by volunteers and local schoolchildren. Each poppy represented a life remembered, a story honoured, and a promise never to forget. Seeing young people actively involved in commemorating our shared history was especially powerful. It reminded me that Remembrance isn’t just about reflecting on the past, but about passing on the values of service, sacrifice, and peace to future generations.

Services took place across the constituency, including in Bexhill and Little Common, and our communities have once again shown how deeply they value Remembrance. I want to thank those who make these events possible – their dedication ensures that the stories of our servicemen and women live on. Last week, Dave Hatherell from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission took me on a guided tour of Bexhill Cemetery and shared individual stories of the members of our armed forces who died in service and were laid to rest in the constituency. Dave should be tremendously proud of the informative, educational and inspirational work he does to keep our history alive.

On the same day, I had a chat with those selling poppies for the Royal British Legion down on Bexhill seafront. I was struck by the commitment of these volunteers, whose presence reminds us of the importance of Remembrance and the vital work the Legion does in supporting our veterans and their families. From mental health services to housing support, the charity continues to be a lifeline for those who have served.

I also joined colleagues in the House of Commons for the annual Remembrance service in Westminster Hall, after passing the Garden of Remembrance where a cross was placed to remember those from Bexhill & Battle who have served. The usually busy and bustling Parliament fell silent on the day, marking a moment of unity across political lines; a shared recognition of the debt we owe to the members of our armed forces who died in service.

As we wear our poppies and pause in silence, let us remember those who have fallen in service. Their bravery continues to shape our nation, and I know each and every one of my constituents owes so much to those that paid the ultimate price for our freedom and sovereignty.