Remembrance Day Reflections
Remembrance Day provides an opportunity to pause, reflect, and honour those who have served and sacrificed in defence of our country.
For many across the e-ppl Group – auto-scan, e-ppl and e-vo – the day holds a deeply personal meaning, a reminder of experiences, friendships, and values that continue to shape who we are today.
John Birch – auto-scan, Director
John served in the Royal Air Force for sixteen years as an Aircraft Technician, working on frontline squadrons responsible for aircraft weapon systems and later specialising in escape systems.
He reflects that “Remembrance Day is a time for reflection to honour the service and sacrifices made by all those who have died or been affected by conflict. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the peace and freedoms that were defended through these sacrifices.”
John says that his military background instilled values that remain central to his work today – attention to detail, integrity, reliability, and adaptability. “Working with explosives and aircraft escape systems leaves no margin for error or complacency,” he explains. “That sense of precision and accountability never leaves you.”
Pete Shipton – auto-scan, Senior Supervisor
Pete served as an Airframe Technician on Tornado GR1 aircraft between 1990 and 1997. For him, Remembrance Day is both a moment of reflection and gratitude. “It’s a day where people can show appreciation for the sacrifices members of the armed forces give to protect this country and the freedom it carries,” he says. “Every day is a Remembrance Day for those who’ve served.”
Pete describes how the teamwork, discipline, and composure he learned in the forces have shaped his life since leaving the service. He also believes that businesses have an important role to play in recognising the meaning of Remembrance. “It brings community spirit, something that’s slowly disappearing,” he says. “It’s also key for businesses to support and understand veterans; the transition into civilian life can be difficult, so knowing there’s support in the workplace is a comfort to many.”
Now, with his son currently serving in the Army, Pete says it fills him with pride every day: “It’s a feeling you can only experience and never explain.”
Honouring Service and Sacrifice
Across the e-ppl Group, many colleagues have connections to the Armed Forces, through service, family, or shared values. For all of us, Remembrance Day is a moment to recognise the courage, teamwork and selflessness shown by those who served and those who continue to serve.
As John and Pete both remind us, the freedoms we enjoy today were earned through sacrifice.
This year, as we wear the poppy and observe the silence, we remember the fallen, give thanks to those who served, and reflect on the values that continue to unite us.
