In a poignant act of remembrance and fraternity, the head of Freemasonry in West Lancashire, Mark Francis Matthews, accompanied by the Royal Arch Second Provincial Grand Principal, Andy Whittle and Martin Clements, the Armed Forces Covenant Lead for the Province, presented a Memorial Wreath to the President of the Widows’ Sons Masonic Bikers Association of West Lancashire, Bill Bruce. Also present were other members of the West Lancashire Freemasons, members of the Widows’ Sons Masonic Bikers Chapter of West Lancashire, along with members of the Armed Forces past and serving.
Along with other Widows’ Sons Chapters from around the country, West Lancashire will transport their Province’s wreath to the National Memorial Arboretum on the 25 of October, in preparation for the National Freemasons’ Service of Remembrance organised by UGLE.
The service is to be held at the Arboretum on 1 November, a solemn event that brings together various Freemasons’ Provinces along with other Freemasons from throughout the UK, to honour those who have served and sacrificed in the defence of our nation.
The West Lancashire Chapter’s members will undertake the honourable duty of transporting the wreath to the Arboretum. This journey, conducted with respect and solemnity, reflects not only the physical act of remembrance but also a deeper spiritual connection; linking the Province of West Lancashire with the National Freemasons’ Service of Remembrance.
At the heart of this gesture lies the enduring spirit of the Armed Forces Covenant; the nation’s solemn promise to ensure that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated with fairness, respect, and dignity. The Covenant reflects values of loyalty, service, and integrity; values that resonate deeply with Freemasonry’s own guiding principles of integrity, friendship, respect, and service. Through this act of remembrance, the Freemasons of West Lancashire reaffirm their commitment to those who have given so much for the freedoms we enjoy today.
The National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire, is the United Kingdom’s year-round centre of remembrance. It offers a serene landscape where over 400 memorials pay tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces, emergency services, and civic organisations who have served with courage and dedication. Each monument tells a story of sacrifice and service, creating a powerful testament to the nation’s gratitude. The laying of Memorial Wreaths from West Lancashire Freemasons along with wreaths from the other provinces represents a heartfelt contribution to that collective remembrance.
The presentation of these wreaths exemplifies the unity and shared purpose that define Freemasonry. It demonstrates how Freemasonry’s leadership and membership work hand in hand to uphold timeless values: respect for service, gratitude for sacrifice, and a commitment to community.
In the peaceful surroundings of the National Memorial Arboretum, the West Lancashire Wreath will stand as a visible and enduring symbol of remembrance. It will represent not only the collective thanks of West Lancashire Freemasons but also the brotherly support extended to all who serve in the Armed Forces. The Memorial Service on 1 November will provide an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and renewal of the promise that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
