On Wheels of Remembrance: Jersey's Quiet, Powerful Nod to Its Heroes

Remembrance Sunday, for many, is a day of solemn reflection; a time to pause, remember, and honor the immeasurable sacrifices made by servicemen and women. But on the island of Jersey, it’s also a day where gratitude takes a tangible form, moving freely through the streets. Because, for its veterans and active personnel, travel on the island’s buses becomes a gesture, a very human one, of profound respect.

You see, for November 12th, 2023 — the designated day for remembrance this year — LibertyBus, with the staunch backing of the States of Jersey, rolled out a truly heartwarming initiative. It's quite simple, really: any veteran, any member of the armed forces, or even a cadet, need only present a valid ID, a military card, or perhaps a cherished medal, and their journey across the island is on the house. No fuss, no cost, just a clear message of thanks.

It's not just about getting from A to B, of course. Not really. It’s about ensuring that those who have served, who have given so much, can attend the various commemorative services dotted across Jersey without a second thought about logistics or expense. Imagine, if you will, the quiet dignity of a veteran, perhaps a little older, making their way to a cenotaph, knowing their community literally supports their journey there. That, in truth, is a powerful thing.

Kevin Hart, who directs LibertyBus, spoke of his team’s pride in this undertaking, calling it a “small gesture” yet emphasizing its importance to the island’s fabric. And he’s right, you could say. These gestures, small as they might seem on the surface, often carry the heaviest weight of meaning. They stitch communities together, reminding everyone of shared values and collective memory.

Deputy Mike Taylor, Assistant Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport & Culture — quite a mouthful, but his sentiment was clear — echoed this feeling. He rightly dubbed it a “heartwarming gesture” that speaks volumes about Jersey’s deep gratitude. For him, and indeed for many islanders, supporting these vital members of their community isn’t just good policy; it’s an absolute imperative.

So, as the island pauses this Remembrance Sunday, amidst the quiet wreaths and the haunting bugle calls, there will also be the steady hum of buses carrying their most honored passengers. It’s a quiet testament, a moving tribute on wheels, from a community that truly understands the meaning of service. And for once, just for one day, their journey is a collective thank you, riding on every street and every stop.