On Friday, 08 November 2024, guests, staff, and pupils from all year groups gathered in solemn reflection for the school’s annual Remembrance Service, honoring those who serve, have served, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War and in conflicts since.

The service welcomed attendees from the Reserve Forces and Cadet Association, as well as Old Armachians and former and current staff. The Very Revd Shane Forster, Dean of Armagh, officiated, with members of the school’s Combined Cadet Force escorting guests to their seats before the service commenced at 10:30 am.

Mrs. Murray, Vice Principal of Curriculum, opened the service, followed by the congregation’s hymn, ‘Abide with Me.’ Readings from Psalm 121 and Revelation 22, verses 1-5, were given by the Head Girl and Head Boy. Under the direction of Mr. Boyd, the chamber choir then performed the moving ‘For the Fallen’ by Douglas Guest. The headmaster followed with the remembrance address.

During the service, the congregation heard the story of Private Francis Carleton Burges, an Old Armachian who was wounded in the Battle of the Somme during World War I while serving with the 1st Battalion of the Irish Guards. He succumbed to his wounds at the age of 23 and is interred at St. Pierre Cemetery on the outskirts of Amiens, France.

After the address, Vice Principal Pastoral Care and Inclusion, Mr. Cardwell, led the Act of Remembrance, and the Revd Forster offered prayers before leading the Act of Commitment. The service concluded with the hymn ‘How Deep the Father’s Love for Us’ and the blessing.

Afterwards, wreaths were laid at the Great War Memorial in the school and at the cricket pavilion, which honors former pupils who lost their lives in the Second World War. Following the wreath-laying, guests were served tea in the dining hall by the prefects.