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MY WREATH OF RESPECT STORY

 

I first became involved with the Wreath of Respect Project in May 2014 when I was asked if I would help with obtaining media coverage and planning the return of the Wreath to the National Memorial Arboretum following it's 2 week tour around the UK.

 

I was warned to prepare myself for something special when I first went to see the Wreath but nothing could have prepared me for the feelings of emotion, gratitude, pride and peace which overcame me when it was placed in my hands. From that moment I knew this was more than an inanimate object and I hoped with every fibre of my being I could raise awareness and bring the story and ethos  of the Wreath to everyone not just locally, but nationally and internationally.

 

I took on responsibility for responding to requests for the Wreath and, with the other Custodians, ensuring anything the Wreath attended met the criteria of promoting Remembrance, Respect, Reconciliation and had a Military connection.

 

My passion for spreading the word about the Wreath inspired me to identify suitable events and opportunities to raise awareness by taking the Wreath to them (with the permission of the other Custodians and Event Organisers).

 

I am a great believer that when we hold or touch something we leave a trace of our own feelings and emotions and this is true with the Wreath therefor, in keeping with the idea that it is meant to be a tactile piece accessible to everyone, I encourage as many people as possible to hold and touch it, have a few quiet moments and use it as a medium for reflection.  There are many stories I could tell of the effect the Wreath has had on people who have held it but I feel they are personal, private experiences I was privileged to witness or be told about.  All I will say is I believe the Wreath Of Respect is a powerful artefact which I am honoured to be involved with and hope with all my heart I always will be. 

 

I've taken the Wreath to a wide variety of ceremonies and events including  Remembrance Services; Memorial unveilings; VC stone dedications; Medal presentations and  Reconciliation Services.  I have been overcome and humbled  by the reception received and appreciation expressed and I look forward to attending the many more proposed and planned events for the rest of this year, next year and long into the future.

 

Bernie Wilkins.

Custodian

Wreath of Respect

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