Armistice Day: two-minute silence 11am on 11 November

On Tuesday 11 November at 11am, council colleagues will join people across the country in observing the traditional two-minute silence, a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made in the past and the importance of peace in the present. A special ceremony will also be held that morning for veterans working within East Lothian Council.

Our Armed Forces Champion, Provost John McMillan said:

“Each year, our communities gather to remember those whose courage and sacrifice secured the freedoms we enjoy today. As we mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War, it feels especially important to honour their legacy and ensure that the stories of service and resilience continue to be told.

“Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day give us a chance to come together – to stand still, reflect, and give thanks. It’s a tradition that binds generations and reminds us of our shared responsibility to build a peaceful future. I encourage everyone to participate in the two-minute silence wherever you might be at 11am on the 11th.”

Remembrance parades held

Communities across East Lothian came together as a series of remembrance parades and services took place on Sunday, 9 November to honour the service and sacrifice of those who gave their lives in conflict, as the nation marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War.

Events took place in: Pencaitland, Tranent, Elphinstone, Haddington, Prestonpans, North Berwick, Cockenzie and Port Seton, and Musselburgh and Inveresk, offering residents the opportunity to reflect and pay tribute to the men and women who have served in the armed forces.

In addition, Knox Academy hosted a coffee morning for veterans on Thursday 6 November, welcoming local veterans, pupils and staff to share memories and conversation.

The Last Flight

The following poem, The Last Flight, is shared at services across the country to mark the occasion:

In skies of blue, they soared so high,
With courage bold, they touched the sky.
Through roaring winds and clouds of grey,
They flew for peace; they paved the way.

The engines hummed a steadfast tune,
Beneath the sun, beneath the moon.
Through trials fierce, they held their ground,
In freedom’s name, their hearts were bound.

And when the call for rest was near,
They faced the end without a fear.
Their final flight, a hero’s grace,
To endless skies, a timeless space.

So now we stand, in solemn pride,
For those who lived, for those who died.
Their wings of valour, forever bright,
We honour them on this Armistice night.

Armed Forces Network 

Colleagues who are veterans who have not yet received an invitation can find out more about the special reception on 11 November 2025 by emailing armedforcesemployeenetwork@eastlothian.gov.uk