The meaning of the Standard As we lead up to Remembrance Sunday on the 9th November following the Poppy Appeal which starts on the 25th October, it may be of interest to know the ‘Meaning of the Standard’ which we see at so many of the Royal British Legion Services. This came to my notice when I became a member in 1992 in support of my husband John who proudly pronounced the Exhortation for many years at our Church. It begins with a declaration to be made immediately after a standard has been dedicated as follows: ‘I would remind you that these Standards are no mere flags of Silk or bunting but rather are sacred emblems which have been solemnly dedicated in ample form. ‘Your Standards represent the ideal of Service to GOD, QUEEN and COUNTRY. The Spire head should remind us of the pillar of flames, or the finger pointing to Heaven, which is generally depicted in our Churches by their spires.’ The Union Flag bears the crosses of St. George, St. Andrew and St. Patrick. St. George is the Patron Saint of Fighting Men, St. Andrew was a Disciple of Christ., St. Patrick was a pioneer Christian Missionary to this Country. Beneath these Crosses all the great epics of Chivalry in our history have been achieved. Added to these Crosses are the Blue and Old Gold of
the Royal British Legion. The BLUE is to remind us of the gallant souls who have passed on beneath the deep water and in the air. The GOLD represents those shining warriors who sanctified by service have passed on unsullied to the Throne of Grace. The tassels remind us of the beginning and ending of life, and the Cord, the golden line along which all good Legionaires should pass during the brief sojourn on earth. The Golden fringe or frame binds us all together in one great Brotherhood. Thus you have represented on your Standards your Service to God, your Queen and your Country. ‘I exhort you therefore, to remember that your Standards are Sacred Emblems. Keep them clean and cared for, a sign that you appreciate the meaning of this Charge’. Do please support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal so they may maintain the care given to those who have given and those who still fight to give us freedom and democracy. Valerie Geller Membership No. 0145888 11