While Sunday’s national focus of Remembrance was once again on the Cenotaph in London, where the United Kingdom paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of British and Commonwealth servicemen and women, a truly special ceremony also took place here in Spain, at the Capilla de las Mil Palmeras, where veterans, residents, and visitors gathered to honour those who gave their all for freedom.
At the southern end of the Costa Blanca and the Mar Menor, the Torrevieja Branch of the Royal Naval Association once again rose to the occasion, ensuring this years’ service upheld the same high standards that have long defined the Mil Palmeras tradition.
Now in its seventeenth year, the event continues to grow in strength and spirit, bringing together people of all ages and nationalities in a heartfelt act of remembrance and unity.
Joining over 500 veterans at the service was Sr. D. Rafael Torrecillas del Prado, Capitan de Navío, from Alicante, along with Francisco (Paco) Canovas Master Sargent Spanish Air Force Retired.
They were accompanied by the mayor of Pilar de la Horadada and local councillors from all sides of the political spectrum. Senior members of the Guardia Civil and Policia Local were also in attendance as was the British Vice Consul from Alicante, Sara Munsterhjelm.
Leading the service was Pastor Phil Molloy of the Cornerstone Pentecostal Evangelical Church in Pilar de la Horadada, who delivered a deeply meaningful sermon that blended solemn reflection with hope for a more peaceful world.
Speaking in both English and Spanish, Pastor Molloy reminded the congregation of the importance of defending our freedoms and protecting our way of life, while keeping alive the flame of hope and gratitude for those who have served, and continue to serve, in the cause of peace.
Before the service began, the sound of the Torrevieja Pipes and Drums filled the air as they proudly led a parade of standards representing the Royal Navy, Submariners Association, RBL and other service organisations.
Their stirring music set the tone for a morning of pride and reflection.
Inside the packed church, readings were delivered by Mayor Jose Maria Perez Sanchez, British Vice Consul Sara Munsterhjelm, Shirly Moritz, Tony and Maureen Jenkins, and Nicola Louden. Branch Chair Tony Jenkins led The Act of Remembrance, while Maureen Jenkins gave a moving reading of In Flanders Fields, and Walter Shatford recited The Kohima Epitaph.
Music played a central role in the service. Cindy Fitzpatrick gave a soulful rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, Ian Gibson of the JB Just Brass Band performed The Last Post and Reveille with precision and grace, and former Welsh Guards Pipe Major Brian Day delivered a haunting performance of Hector the Hero.
The Costa Blanca International Concert Band, under Musical Director Jeremy Davies, provided the hymn accompaniment, a band that has faithfully supported the Mil Palmeras service in one form or another for nearly two decades.
A particularly touching moment came when Leticia Bergmann carried the Peace Candle to the altar and recited the Children’s Citation for Peace in both English and Spanish, a powerful symbol of hope for future generations.
Following the singing of the National Anthems of Spain and the United Kingdom, the congregation moved to the International Garden of Remembrance. There, the mayor led dignitaries and guests as they laid wreaths in silent tribute before members of the public added their own poppy crosses, a sea of red that spoke volumes of love, loss, and gratitude. Three pipers played softly as the crowd stood united in reflection.
As the service concluded, the Torrevieja Pipes and Drums once again struck up, leading veterans, guests, and members of the public from the chapel to the Mil Palmeras Olympia Restaurant, where conversation, camaraderie, and remembrance continued over refreshments, a fitting close to a day of community spirit and togetherness.
What began over a century ago as a commemoration for those lost in the First World War has evolved into a universal tribute, not only to those who have fallen, but also to all who continue to strive for peace, freedom, and justice in our world today.
The Mil Palmeras Remembrance Service once again proved that even far from home, the flame of remembrance burns brightly on the Costa Blanca, a testament to unity, gratitude, and enduring hope.
And once again, heartfelt thanks go to the Ayuntamiento of Pilar de la Horadada and to local businesswoman Francisca Samper for their continued and invaluable support. Their dedication ensures that this important act of remembrance can take place each year with the dignity and care it deserves.
Thanks to their efforts, more than 500 veterans and their families were able to follow the entire service on a large outdoor screen specially erected by the Town Hall — allowing everyone, whether inside or outside the church, to share in the spirit of unity and remembrance that defines this moving community event.
Proceeds from the day’s collection will be donated to both local and UK Service Charities.
# We will remember them.
