Communities across the Western Isles came together on Sunday 9 September to mark Remembrance Sunday, honouring the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who gave their lives in service.
In Stornoway, Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Councillor Kenny Macleod, joined Iain Macaulay, Lord Lieutenant of the Western Isles, alongside armed forces representatives, veterans, and local organisations for a solemn service at the Lewis War Memorial.
The well-attended ceremony was conducted by Rev. Gordon Macleod of the High Church, Stornoway, with wreaths laid and prayers offered at the Memorial Garden below the iconic tower overlooking the town.
As the island stood still in reflection, the sound of the Last Post echoed through the cold air, followed by two minutes of silence, a moment shared by generations bound by remembrance.
Councillor Macleod said the day was a powerful reminder of both the cost of war and the strength of island communities.
“Gathering on Remembrance Sunday we recognise the contribution and sacrifice of service men and women from the Western Isles in two world wars and later conflicts and reflect on the impact that global conflicts have had on our communities,” he said.
“It is important that we come together to remember, and I would like to thank all those who organised and attended services across our islands.”
Across the Western Isles, from Barra to the Butt of Lewis, residents paused to pay their respects, from small community services to private moments of reflection in homes and churches.
The faces may change with each passing year, but the silence remains the same, a mark of gratitude, remembrance, and enduring Highland pride.
