Light of remembrance to #ShineOn in Plymouth

9th November 2020

Plymouth is one of four locations across the country chosen to take part in a unique act of remembrance commemorating Armistice Day (Wednesday 11 November).

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) is lighting up the sky above the Royal Naval War Memorial to pay tribute to the 1.7 million Commonwealth war dead as part of its #ShineOn remembrance activities.

Ours is one of four CWGC cemeteries and memorials where a searchlight will be beamed into the sky in a ‘symbolic gesture that the light of remembrance, even in these dark times, will never be extinguished’.

The light will be visible for miles around and best viewed from a distance, so people are asked to watch from the safety of home and not head to the Hoe. Instead, the CWGC is encouraging everyone to take a moment at 7pm on Wednesday to step outside their homes, look at the stars and remember the fallen.

CWGC’s Director General, Mr Barry Murphy, explained: “For more than a century, we have gathered at the same time on the same day, to bow our heads and think of those who sacrificed their lives for ours, during the two world wars. But this year’s different.

“Whilst we can’t come together in person, we can still make sure their names burn bright. Not just for one day, but for all the days (and nights) to come. So, this year, on Remembrance Day, we’ll look up to the stars in our night sky to remember those who fell. All 1.7 million of them.

“I would urge the public to join us by choosing to name a star in remembrance of someone and looking up into the night sky at 7pm on 11 November to remember that person and all those who died during the two world wars. Together, we can make sure their names Shine On.”

Lord Mayor of Plymouth, Councillor Chris Mavin, said: “Plymouth is proud to have been chosen as one of the locations to take part in this symbolic and poignant act of remembrance for Armistice Day. While we may not be together in person we can join in sharing this quiet moment of reflection and remembering those who gave their lives.”

For more information see the CWGC website.