Suffolk New College fell silent to remember the fallen during a ceremony held in Ipswich.
Thousands of staff, students and members of the local community witnessed a procession and service that had been orchestrated by the public services department.
During a short ceremony, nine learners read out personal tributes explaining what Armistice Day meant to them.
They included 16-year-old Harry Duffett from Ipswich. The uniformed public services level two student said: “My great grandad was in the First World War as a soldier and I was thinking of him during the two minutes silence.”
Reference was made to the fact that this year is the 40th anniversary of the Falklands conflict and a veteran from this battle was in attendance.
Former Royal Marine – Terry Barnes – who has written a book about his experiences called ‘Before, During and after my Falkands War’ said: “I came along to support this event to make sure youngsters understand what has happened in the past.”
(Terry hopes to return to the college in the near future to talk to students about his career in the military).
Public Services curriculum co-ordinator, Martin Memory, said: “Our students have been supporting the Royal British Legion poppy appeal and their efforts in creating this Remembrance Day Parade were exceptional. As a college community, we are proud to join the nation during a period of silence to remember the fallen.”
In reference to mentioning the Falklands during proceedings, Martin added: “I was 18 when I was involved in the Falklands conflict and sadly lost colleagues. Therefore for me, 40 years on, it’s quite poignant to remember people that passed during that conflict.”