Events Planned In The UK And Belgium To Commemorate 100 Years Since The Start Of The First World War

August 4, 2014, Belgium and the UK begin events to commemorate the day the British Empire entered the first World War 100 years ago. The UK’s Ministry of Defense has issued a summary of highlights that will be taking place.

The first major event commemorating 100 years since the start of World War I will be held at the Glasgow Cathedral. A Commonwealth Service and wreath laying event will be attended by The Duke of Rothsay. 1,400 guests have been invited. Guests honoring the lives lost during the first World War will also include representatives from the UK Commonwealth, military officials, and senior defense Ministers.

After that, a parade will be held along The Leas in Folkeston. The parade will mark the route millions of soldiers took during World War I 100 years ago. The soldiers marched to Folkestone Harbour at the start of their journey into France. Military personnel will make their way down the Road of Remembrance. Prince Henry of Wales will be at the new Memorial Arch on the Leas.

In Belgium, at the Commonwealth War Grave’s Commission, a World War I commemoration will be held. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and Prince Henry of Wales will be at St. Symphorien Military Cemetery, which contains the remains of both UK and German soldiers. The Coldstream Guards Band will play at this event in Belgium. A Scots Piper from the London Scottish Regiment will play “Flowers of the Forest” at this World War I centennial ceremony.

At the end of the evening, a candlelit vigil will be held at Westminster Abbey. This event, at 10 p.m., will mark the time that Sir Edward Grey signed the Declaration of War. Candles will be snuffed out one by one. This will honor Sir Edward Grey’s famous words from 100 years ago. He commented, “The lamps are going out all over Europe; we shall not see them lit again in our lifetime.” One oil burning lamp will remain at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, but at 11 p.m., the lone lamp will also be extinguished. 11 p.m., will mark exactly 100 years from the moment the British Empire joined World War 1.

[Photo via The Royal British Legion on YouTube]