British Embassy honors fallen heroes of war and terrorism

• H. E. Belinda Lewis, the British Ambassador to Kuwait, stated that the annual “Remembrance Day Ceremony”, held since November 1919, offers a significant opportunity to reflect on the losses caused by conflict and terrorism and to remember all those who lost their lives, regardless of side.

The British Embassy held its annual “Remembrance Day Ceremony” to honor those who sacrificed their lives in conflicts and acts of terrorism.

The ceremony included readings by Pastor Dr. Michael Mbona and was attended by ambassadors, honorable military attachés, veterans, and officers from the Kuwaiti and British armies to honor martyrs—whether soldiers who sacrificed their lives in defense of their countries or civilians lost to war and acts of terrorism.

Many attendees wore or drew the poppy flower, the first to bloom on World War I battlefields, symbolizing remembrance and hope for a more peaceful future.

On this occasion, Commander of the Air Defence Force, Major General Khaled Darer Al-Shariyan, in a statement to journalists, represented the Deputy Chief of General Staff of the Army, Major General Pilot Sabah Jaber Al-Ahmad, and said, “We thank the Ambassador of the United Kingdom for the kind invitation to commemorate the military martyrs who sacrificed their lives in service. Commemorating this anniversary is a duty to them, and we express our appreciation and gratitude for their work, hoping for security and safety for all nations.”

Regarding military cooperation in the airspace between the two countries, he said, “The field of cooperation is immeasurable. Cooperation between the two countries has deep roots, ranging from training to military collaboration in various fields.”

He added, “The martyrs of duty have our utmost appreciation and gratitude. Their sacrifice is the highest honor, especially in the defense of the homeland. This is the wish of every person who seeks to defend their country.”

In her speech, H. E. Belinda Lewis, the British Ambassador to Kuwait, said, “This commemoration, held annually since November 1919, one year after the armistice that marked the end of the First World War, is always an occasion of great significance. This event offers an opportunity to reflect on the losses caused by conflict and terrorism, and to remember all those who lost their lives—regardless of side—due to these tragedies.”

For his part, the British Embassy’s Military Attaché, Colonel Nail Marriott (Royal Navy), said, “We are proud of the long history of relations between the United Kingdom and Kuwait. This year, we are celebrating the 125th anniversary of diplomatic relations.”

He highlighted the commitment of the armed forces of both countries to enhance security and military cooperation. He also emphasized the United Kingdom’s dedication to supporting Kuwait and standing by its side to ensure peace, security, and stability in the region.

Regarding joint exercises, he said, “We strive to conduct exercises regularly between the British and Kuwaiti armed forces, and there are many training courses held in the United Kingdom, with the active participation of Kuwaiti soldiers.”

He added, “There are leadership development courses such as the Leadership and Advanced Staff Course and the Royal College of Defence Studies, aimed at preparing future senior officers. We are grateful for the regular participation of Kuwaiti personnel in these programs. Additionally, we conduct training at both the tactical and operational levels.”

He also mentioned the completion of the “Iron Shield 2-2024” joint exercise between the Kuwaiti and British forces at the Saleh Al-Mohammed Automatic Brigade/94, with sixty British soldiers taking part. He noted that the exercise is part of ongoing joint cooperation between the two forces, designed to enhance training, command and control operations, and unify operational concepts. The exercise also serves to exchange experiences and improve the combat readiness of both sides.

He pointed out that 34 British military personnel are permanently stationed at the military command headquarters in Kuwait, in addition to British military personnel at the Arifjan Camp and Ali Al-Salem Air Base.

Regarding military projects and deals between the two countries, he said, “There are government arrangements between the British Ministry of Defence and the Kuwaiti Ministry of Defence, allowing Kuwait to purchase any military capabilities it may need from the United Kingdom. We are aware that Kuwait is currently studying several projects, and the UK is ready to offer solutions. While Kuwait has not yet submitted a purchase order through the two governments (G2G), there are opportunities to acquire exceptional capabilities.”

Asked about coordination between the British Army and countries in the region amid current events, Marriott emphasized that the United Kingdom is committed to supporting regional peace and security and is actively engaged in significant diplomatic efforts throughout the region.

On the occasion, Marriott said, “On Memorial Day, we honor those who sacrificed their lives for peace and freedom. As we celebrate 125 years of the Kuwaiti-British partnership, we hope to continue the shared values of courage, duty, and unity that have long strengthened the privileged ties between our two countries.”

For his part, retired Lt. Col. Doji Lord, a Gulf War veteran, said, “It is an honor for me, as a Gulf War veteran living in Kuwait, to be asked to lay a wreath on the memorial wall at the British Embassy and commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”