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Poppy Day: Honouring the resilience of our forebears

By Lieutenant Colonel Gershom Gameli Klu-Amereka, Ghana Army

On November 11 every year, Ghana and most parts of the world, particularly men and women of the military, gather to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served and those who continue to serve in our Armed Forces, on the occasion of Remembrance Day. The Day is a solemn occasion dedicated to reflecting on the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of those who have fought to protect our freedoms. It is a moment to recognise the dedication of these individuals, many of whom paid the ultimate price, giving their lives to safeguard our way of life and the values we hold dear.

The poppy, a simple yet profound symbol of remembrance, is more than just a flower. Inspired by John McCrae’s powerful poem, In Flanders Fields, the poppy has become an emblem of bloodshed, resilience, and respect for those who have served in times of war. It is a reminder of the crimson fields, where so many fell, and of the loss that countless families around the world still bear. We do not only wear the poppy to remember the past, but to also honour the present-day service members of the military, who stand ready to defend us at all times. Reflecting on Remembrance Day is not just about looking back in history. It is also about our responsibility to those who continue to serve.

Each generation has faced unique challenges. From the trenches of World War I to the beaches of Normandy during World War II to the intense and complex modern-day conflicts around the world, servicemen and women have stood resolute, meeting each of these challenges with courage and professionalism. These battles may seem distant in time or place, but their impact on lives, the peace we enjoy, and the freedoms we sometimes take for granted is enormous. Today, we honour not only those who fell but also the veterans who continue to bear the scars of war. Their experiences have marked them profoundly, and for some, these scars are visible, while for others, they remain hidden. We must never overlook the sacrifices made by these individuals.

For some, when their service ends, the battles they fought do not always disappear; they live on in memories, in struggles, and in the resilience it takes to return to civilian life. They are a testament to courage and to the strength of the human spirit. Let us also take a moment to acknowledge the families of our service members, who themselves sacrifice in ways that are often unseen. They, too, bear the weight of service, experiencing long separations and facing the constant worry for their loved ones’ safety. Some have had to endure the ultimate heartbreak of loss, bearing the heavy heart and burden of grief in the absence of a beloved son or daughter, husband or wife, father or mother.

These families deserve our recognition and support, as their sacrifice is woven into the fabric of our shared memory. As we observe this moment and day, we renew our commitment to the ideals of peace, freedom, and the values our Armed Forces work so hard to defend.

Our gratitude must extend beyond one day or one ceremony. It must live on in our respect for the liberties we enjoy and in our dedication to a more peaceful world. In remembering, we are called to action, to support those who serve, to care for those who return, and to work toward a future where fewer families must bear the loss of a loved one to war. Let us wear the poppy as a reminder of our collective duty to uphold these values.

Let us remember the sacrifices made on our behalf and honour them by committing ourselves to peace, resilience, and respect for one another. Today, as we reflect on those who have fought and those who continue to serve, we are united in gratitude, respect, and hope for a better and more peaceful world. We will remember them, as we say no to war and yes to peace.