In a fitting act of remembrance and reflection, veterans and supporters, led by the North Fylde Group Armed Forces Covenant Officer (AFCO) Martin Poole of Royal Oak Lodge No 5919, gathered at Fleetwood Cemetery to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.
The final grave visited during the annual tribute was that of Royal Marine Darren ‘Daz’ Smith of 45 Commando Royal Marines, who was killed whilst serving in Afghanistan. Daz was the nephew of Dave Smith of Wyre Lodge No 7704, making the occasion particularly meaningful for many in attendance. His sacrifice, alongside that of countless others, was remembered with dignity and respect as those present reflected upon the courage and commitment of those who answered their nation’s call.
As part of the ceremony, participants divided into small groups and made their way around the cemetery, placing crosses and paying their respects at the graves of servicemen and women. At each stop, moments of quiet reflection provided an opportunity to remember lives dedicated to duty and service. The groups later reunited at Daz’s grave for the final act of remembrance.
In a moving tribute, Ian Glass, a veteran of 45 Commando Royal Marines, placed a cross at Marine Smith’s grave on behalf of those gathered. The gesture served as a powerful reminder not only of the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces, but also of the enduring bonds of comradeship and friendship that continue long after military service has ended.
There was a profound sense of reflection among those present as names, dates and ages etched upon the gravestones told stories of lives cut tragically short in conflicts spanning generations. Each headstone stood as a silent testament to courage, sacrifice and devotion to duty, reminding all those in attendance that the freedoms enjoyed today have come at a considerable cost.
Following the laying of the cross, those gathered raised a traditional toast with port in honour of the fallen, remembering not only their service and sacrifice but also the fellowship that survives the passage of time. It was a poignant moment, reflecting the shared respect and gratitude felt towards those who gave so much in the service of others.
The ceremony demonstrated that remembrance is not confined to national occasions alone. Through simple acts of respect, reflection and gratitude, veterans and supporters ensured that those who gave their lives in service to their country remain remembered, honoured and never forgotten.
Martin Poole, who organised the tribute in his capacity as North Fylde Group Armed Forces Covenant Officer, reflected upon the enduring importance of remembrance, noting that honouring the fallen helps preserve the values of duty, integrity and service that they so faithfully upheld.
As those gathered departed the cemetery, there remained a shared sense of gratitude and respect for those who had given everything in the service of their country. Through acts such as these, the memory of the fallen is kept alive, ensuring that their sacrifice, courage and dedication continue to be honoured by future generations.
Story by Derek Ginger.