Page 44 - QARANC Vol 15 No 1 2017

42 QARANC THE GAZETTE
Remembrance:
A Humanist Reflection Remembrance Sunday, 13 November 2016
What is a Humanist, you may ask? Well, we trust scientific method when it comes to understanding how the universe works and reject the idea of the supernatural. We make ethical decisions based on reason, empathy and a concern for human beings and other sentient animals and we believe that, in the absence of an afterlife and any discernible purpose to the universe, we all can act to give our own lives meaning by seeking happiness in this life and helping others to do the same.
The Defence Humanist Network (DHN) seeks to represent the non-religious and ensure their needs are included in events such as Remembrance. I have previously attended local humanist events around the country and my aspiration is to represent the DHN at the
Cenotaph, Whitehall.
The first Ministry of Defence
recognised Humanist act of Remembrance took place in the perfect secular location, the Grade II listed Fitzrovia Chapel, a non-consecrated chapel in London. The ceremony and act of Remembrance were coordinated and led with consummate professionalism by Humanist Celebrant Flt Lt Ruth Staton PMRAFNS, introducing a range of speakers from across the DHN. All the speakers considered the sacrifices of those who have given their lives in conflict, and presented the (mostly) non-religious audience with powerful readings, poems and extracts inspired by those who have fallen in combat. Prof Grayling CBE shared his considerable philosophical insight on
“Finding Meaning in Remembrance” and struck a chord with all those in attendance.
I enjoyed the musical ensemble led by PO Matt Hicks QARNNS who performed “Novas”, beautifully written for the event, as well as the musical accompaniment provided by the London Humanist Choir who sounded spectacular.
One of the VIPs invited to the event, Chief of Defence People (CDP), Lt Gen Richard Nugee, afterwards commented that “It is events like these that enable our people to be themselves, and feel valued and supported as part of a community. It was a pleasure to meet and talk to so many of the Defence Humanist Network and their guests.”
Pte Collier QARANC DHE
Defence Medical Group (North)
Turning the Pages Ceremony 4 September 2016
On 4 Sept 16, the QARANC contingent of Defence Medical Group North came together in remembrance of all members of the QAIMNS/QARANC who made the ultimate sacrifice. We travelled to Castle Howard, York to join the service along with the Chief Nursing Officer (Army) Col Irvine, individuals from 5 Armoured Medical Regiment, past members of the Corps and some civilian nurses who worked alongside military nurses during war.
The service was solemn and all were respectful. It was clear to see the pride each person had in their cap badge and those who they served alongside. During the service, the QA Book of Remembrance, which is a book honouring QAs who served and were killed in active service during conflicts and war, was opened and turned to a new page of fallen nurses’ names which were then read out. During the reading there was a pensive and reflective silence amongst those in
Preparing for the Run
attendance, each of us thinking about the ultimate sacrifice these people had given in service to their country and freedom.
Following the service there was a meal which gave us time to share stories of past experiences and of things we were looking forward to in our careers. After the meal we then enjoyed a walk around Castle Howard and their picturesque grounds. Thanks were expressed to the Howards for allowing us to use their chapel and to Rev Anne Freestone for conducting the
Preparing for the Run
service.
This was the first time that a Turning
of the Pages service was held by DMG(N) and although the initial brain child of WO1(RSM) Halligan, it was SSgt Daniel and Sgt Walker who ensured that the day came together as planned.
I was honoured to be part of the event and enjoyed it as a whole, as were the rest of DMG(N).
Pte Mangham QARANC