EUAM Marks Remembrance Day

Shortly before 11:00 hours on 11 November 2018, members if the European Union Advisory Mission in Iraq held a Service of Remembrance at the Mission HQ in Baghdad. All available Mission members, European and Iraq, and members of the private security company who provide security services for the Mission, attended.

The Head of Mission, Dr Markus Ritter from the German Federal Police, made an Opening Address describing the cataclysmic affect of the Great War of 1914-1918 on the nations of Europe, and the changes that it brought about in Europe, with the end of empires and the formation of new states. He noted that it also caused the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire and the foundation of the Kingdom of Iraq. The aftermath of the war also meant that Europe was no longer the centre of the world, and saw the rise of great powers outside of Europe, such as the United States and the Soviet Union. He said that the deaths of so many had not been in vain. The Great War ushered in a new world order and the idea of a new Europe. Now 100 years later we are in Iraq as members of a European Mission, based on the decision of 28 member states, and we have Mission members from 14 of those member states. Europe stands for hope and for peace. The EU is a reliable partner for other states and has become a haven for refugees from all over the world. So the soldiers did not die in vain – their sacrifice paved the way for a united Europe.

Prayers, both Christian and Muslim, were the said for the Fallen, and a two minutes silence was observed. The short ceremony ended at shortly after 11:00 hours. Lest we forget!