The passing of the last surviving World War I veterans marks a pivotal moment in how we honor our fallen heroes. With no living witnesses left to share their stories, the question arises: how do we keep the memory of their sacrifice alive? The legacy of those who fought bravely in the trenches is at risk of fading into obscurity, and it is up to us to ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Take, for instance, the story of George Bell and Thomas McGill, cousins from the small Scottish village of Glenluce. Both men answered the call to serve, with George enlisting in 1914 and tragically losing his life at Gallipoli just eight months later. Thomas followed suit in 1916, only to meet the same fate in France. Their names are etched on a local war memorial, a stark reminder of the heavy toll the Great War took on communities across Britain. Yet, as time marches on, the significance of these memorials is increasingly questioned.

In the wake of World War I, the nation grappled with the immense loss of life—nearly one million British soldiers perished, leaving families and communities shattered. The rituals of remembrance that emerged were not just about honoring the dead; they were also about making sense of the chaos and grief that enveloped the nation. Today, however, as we stand on the brink of losing the last of our World War II veterans—fewer than 8,000 remain—what does remembrance mean when the personal connections to these sacrifices are dwindling?

The early commemorations served a dual purpose: to honor the fallen and to legitimize the war itself. As Professor Jay Winter of Yale University points out, these rituals were a way to collectively acknowledge the horror of war while also vowing never to let it happen again. Yet, as the years have passed, the meaning behind these ceremonies has shifted. Many now view them as mere formalities, disconnected from the raw emotions that once fueled them.

As we approach Remembrance Day, the landscape of commemoration is changing. In Edinburgh, for example, Poppy Scotland is making strides to engage younger generations, hoping to instill a sense of duty to remember those who served. Yet, the reality is that many of those buying poppy merchandise are middle-aged, raising concerns about the future of remembrance. Will the younger generations step up to honor our veterans, or will they let the memories fade?

The challenge lies in ensuring that the essence of remembrance is preserved. It is not merely about celebrating victories or waving flags; it is about acknowledging the profound sorrow that accompanies war. As we face the reality of a future without living veterans, we must find new ways to connect with their stories and sacrifices. This is not just a task for the older generations; it is a call to action for all of us to ensure that the legacy of our heroes endures.

In a world where the narratives of history can be easily forgotten, it is crucial that we remain vigilant in our efforts to honor those who fought for our freedoms. The poppy, a symbol of remembrance, must continue to resonate with future generations, reminding them of the sacrifices made for their liberty. As we reflect on the past, let us commit to keeping the spirit of remembrance alive, ensuring that the stories of our heroes are never lost to time.