Representatives from HM Coastguard will attend to add their own contributions to the Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey in London on 7 November when it will be opened to the public in a special ceremony.
Some of those making the trip to London explain how it feels to represent HM Coastguard and why it was important to be there.
Peter Bailey, Senior Maritime Operations Officer, Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC)
It is a profound honour to represent HM Coastguard at the Field of Remembrance in Westminster Abbey this year. To stand alongside fellow servicemen and women, paying our respects to the veterans who sacrificed everything, will be a deep reminder of my own family’s connection to this legacy.
Both of my grandfathers proudly served during the Second World War: one in the Merchant Navy and the other in the Parachute Regiment. Their bravery and dedication have inspired my own path of service.
I have had the privilege of serving in the Royal Navy as an Engineer and now find myself in my 10th year as a Senior Maritime Operations Officer based at Milford Haven MRCC, ensuring the safety of those at sea.
For me, to attend the Field of Remembrance opening is not only a reflection of their legacy but also a tribute to the ongoing efforts of the Emergency Services and Armed Forces, and all those who work tirelessly to protect and serve both in times of peace and conflict.
Neil Blewett, Joint Rescue Coordination Centre Tactical Commander (Aeronautical), Fareham
This is not about us, it’s about others. It was therefore an honour to be one of those chosen to represent HM Coastguard in London at this year’s Remembrance events.
For me, wearing the uniform is a tangible link to those who have gone before us and, in particular, those called-up and those who stayed behind to continue their work saving lives.
At this time of year, it is also poignant as I remember those who lost their lives fighting in Afghanistan alongside my nephew in the 1st Battalion of the Royal Anglian Regiment. My own time in Iraq and Afghanistan is also brought sharply into focus at this time.
Matthew Reynolds, Maritime Operations Officer, Milford Haven MRCC
I come from a family that have served in both wars: my grandfather was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross after evacuating soldiers from Dunkirk during the Second World War, and my great-great-grandfather is remembered on the Tower Hill Memorial. His ship was sunk by a German submarine off Shetland in the First World War.
I joined HM Coastguard in 2019, following 12 years in the fire service. I currently serve as a Maritime Operations Officer at the Milford Haven MRCC, with six years coordinating search and rescue.
It is a great honor to be selected to represent HM Coastguard at the Field of Remembrance. This moment allows me to pay tribute not only to those who sacrificed their lives but also to honor my own family members who served in the two world wars.
Maisy Woodcock, Maritime Operations Officer, Milford Haven MRCC
I feel very honored to be selected to represent HM Coastguard at the Field of Remembrance in Westminster Abbey this year, specially so as this is my first year with HM Coastguard.
I share a great legacy, coming from a very dedicated Service family with my great-grandfathers serving in the Second World War and a great-uncle receiving the Military Medal for extreme bravery whilst serving in Italy.
My grandfather served for 35 years in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers and my grandmother served with the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing Service. Both of my parents have also dedicated themselves to public service as police officers.
Recognising how proud my family have been in service, I have always been determined to follow in their footsteps and was delighted to begin my own journey with HM Coastguard as a Maritime Operations Officer. I am also extremely proud to serve as a volunteer with the RNLI.
I am thrilled to be able to attend the opening of such a poignant ceremony and stand alongside others who also wish to pay tribute to those who have passed, who left such a legacy and to those who work tirelessly for others now, in conflict and in peace.
