Close to 300 people gathered at Chiang Mai Foreign Cemetery on Wednesday, 11th November 2026, for the annual International Remembrance Day ceremony, honouring men and women from many nations who lost their lives in military service, particularly during the First and Second World Wars and subsequent conflicts.
Held under this year’s theme, Service in a Changing World, the ceremony brought together diplomatic representatives, military personnel, veterans, local officials, families, residents and schoolchildren from Chiang Mai’s Thai and international communities.
Representing the Governor of Chiang Mai, Deputy Governor Boonlue Thamthoranurak joined members of the consular corps, military organisations and the public in paying tribute to the fallen. Wreaths were laid and poppies worn as attendees observed moments of silence and reflection.
The theme highlighted the evolving nature of service, extending beyond the military to humanitarian and community contributions. Leigh-Jane Obermayer, Honorary British Consul in Chiang Mai sent Citylife this message about this year’s commemoration, reflecting on the importance of keeping the tradition relevant to future generations.
“Remembrance should never belong solely to soldiers, veterans, or their families. It belongs to all of us. It transcends nationalities, cultures, generations, and borders,” she wrote.
The participation of children and young people from several local schools was a particular highlight, reinforcing the importance of passing on the lessons of history. Obermayer also noted that service in today’s world takes many forms, from teaching and volunteering to supporting neighbours and bringing communities together.
One of the ceremony’s most moving moments came when Gordon Chuck shared the story of losing his son, who was killed while serving in Afghanistan in 2010. His personal account offered a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of conflict on the families left behind.
The ceremony was officiated with contributions from representatives of the British Embassy in Bangkok, the Deputy Defence Attaché, the Royal British Legion, Reverend Iain Baxter and Major Ian Breach (Retd). Personnel from Kawila Barracks, including the bugler, also played an important role in the proceedings.
Obermayer emphasised that remembrance should also encourage a commitment to peace and understanding in everyday life. “Peace is not simply the absence of war. It begins with how we treat one another every day. It grows through kindness, respect, tolerance, friendship and a willingness to understand people whose backgrounds, beliefs and experiences may differ from our own.”
Following the ceremony, guests were invited to refreshments at Chiengmai Gymkhana Club, which kindly hosted the gathering, with refreshments generously sponsored by the British Embassy in Bangkok.
The Chiang Mai Foreign Cemetery Committee and the British Honorary Consul are encouraging more residents, community organisations, businesses and educational institutions to take part in future Remembrance Day events, whether through attendance, volunteering, educational activities or other forms of collaboration.
The annual ceremony remains an important occasion for Chiang Mai’s diverse communities to come together, honour those who served and reflect on the shared responsibility of building a more peaceful future.
Lest We Forget.
