ON SUNDAY, people across East Lothian and the country gathered at war memorials, churches and community halls to mark Remembrance Sunday.
It was, as always, one of the most poignant days in the year, where we pause to honour all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace and our freedom.
In towns and villages across our country, the poppies, the silence and the solemn words of remembrance reminded us that the freedoms we enjoy today were won at an immense cost.
We remembered not only those who gave their lives in the two world wars, but also those who have served and continue to serve in conflicts since, and those who still protect us today.
As the local MP, I had the privilege of attending services in Inveresk on Saturday and joining the church service and parade on Sunday, along with veterans, sea cadets, Royal Marine cadets and other local associations who work tirelessly to keep the memory of service alive.
I was proud to lay a wreath alongside them and was particularly impressed by the local cadets’ respect and commitment.
But remembrance is not only about looking back, it is also about what we do now to support those who have served.
That means ensuring proper mental health support, housing and employment opportunities for veterans and their families.
It also means standing up for peace, diplomacy and our shared responsibility to prevent future conflict.
On Sunday, as the bugle sounded and we fell silent for two minutes, we reflected not only on the courage and sacrifice of those who came before us, but also on our duty to build a fairer, more peaceful world worthy of their memory.
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