Freemasons gather in Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum
Saturday 01 November 2025 – Alrewas, Staffordshire
Article and photos by Worshipful Brother Mark Robey
Union Flag at Half Mast
WO2 Johnston Beharry VC
On a bright but breezy autumn morning, members of the East Kent Combined Services Lodge No. 10038 travelled to the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to take part in a moving act of remembrance hosted by the Metropolitan Grand Lodge. This was the second national remembrance service of its kind for Freemasons, bringing together brethren and companions from provinces across England, Wales, the Channel Islands, and the Isle of Man to honour all those who have given their lives in service to their country.
Attending from East Kent Combined Services Lodge were WBro. Kevin D Stones and his wife Yvonne, WBro. Steve Simmons, WBro. Jeff Hymers, WBro. Peter Walkden, and WBro. Mark Robey with his wife Dawn.
The day’s proceedings began with a formal procession of some ninety participants representing all corners of the Craft. Among them were representatives of the three Armed Forces, WO2 Johnson Beharry VC, Provincial Grand Masters and Grand Superintendents, female Grand Masters, Companion Orders, the Commanding Officer of HMS Forward, members of the Scout movement, and other wreath bearers. Together with the Provincial Grand Standard Bearers, they formed a dignified and colourful parade, their collars and chains glinting in the crisp autumn sunlight as they made their way through the memorial grounds.
Each Province was represented by a wreath laid in remembrance of the fallen. The wreath for the Province of East Kent was placed on behalf of the brethren by Right Worshipful Brother Neil Hamilton Johnstone, Provincial Grand Master for East Kent.
As the poppy tributes were laid, the stillness of the Arboretum and the gentle rustle of the trees offered a moment of deep reflection and gratitude; a fitting setting for a service dedicated to memory, sacrifice, and unity.
The service itself was both solemn and uplifting, with prayers, readings, and music that captured the enduring spirit of Freemasonry: fraternity, respect, and service to others. The presence of so many brethren together, some with their families, and representatives from across the wider Masonic community, created a profound sense of shared purpose and remembrance.
Following the ceremony, lunch was held at the Arboretum for more than 300 attendees. It offered time for fellowship, conversation, and reflection on a day that had brought together so many from across the Provinces.
The event reaffirmed the close bonds between Freemasonry and the Armed Forces, and the continuing commitment to honour those who have served and sacrificed.
The minister leaves the Freemasons memorial
For those present from East Kent Combined Services Lodge, it was a privilege to take part in such a meaningful occasion. The combination of ceremony, remembrance, and brotherhood left a lasting impression on all who attended, a reminder that the principles of service, loyalty, and remembrance remain at the very heart of Freemasonry.
The final photo shows our author (right) and the Primus Worshipful Master of the East Kent Combined Services Lodge No 10038, WBro Steve Simmons. (left)