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Sounding the Last Post and Reveille

RAF Trumpeters sounded the Last Post at over 20 different events during the Remembrance period this year. Whether taking part in a small village ceremony or a televised event reaching a global audience, the pride of a RAF Trumpeter remains a constant.

Below is a video explaining the origins of the Last Post, how its use has evolved and a further insight given by RAF Trumpeters:

The Last Post is a trumpet call, originally used to signal the Duty Officer’s inspection of the last sentry post when barracks were secured for the evening. With the introduction of individual timekeeping these calls became redundant, and their purpose began to change. The Last Post in particular has had a significant shift in meaning; it is now performed to mark the end of earthly life and moreover a way to commemorate the sacrifice of fallen military personnel.

Football clubs in the UK hold a short pre-match ceremony during the Remembrance period where the Last Post is sounded and a 2-minute silence observed in memory of those that made the ultimate sacrifice. This year RAF Trumpeters supported ceremonies at Chelsea, Aston Villa, Stoke and Queen’s Park Football Clubs.

Sergeant  Hynd is a life-long Aston Villa supporter, who had the honour of sounding the Last Post at his beloved club.

It’s always an honour to sound the Last Post on any occasion, but to play at my club and at Villa Park was particularly special

Sergeant  Hynd

Sergeant Tim Hynd at Villa Park.

The Annual Service of Remembrance at St Clement Danes, the Central Church of the RAF, was a little different this year as members of the congregation sat amongst paintings by Remembrance artist, Jacqueline Hurley. These striking works all featured vivid red poppies contrasted against scenes in monochrome. Air Specialist (Class 1) Rob Spalton from the Band of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force sounded the Last Post during the service and took the opportunity to meet Jacqueline and admire her artwork.

Image shows RAF aviator with artist inside St Clement Danes church.
Air Specialist (Class 1) Rob Spalton with artist Jacqueline Hurley.

During the National Act of Remembrance at the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, 10 RAF Trumpeters take their place at the very front of the Cenotaph in readiness to sound the Reveille (Rouse). It is always an honour and privilege to perform during this Service, which this year was attended by His Majesty King Charles III. Honouring a long-standing tradition of sounding the Rouse on cavalry trumpets, this short call signals the conclusion of the formal wreath laying.

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