Culdrose sailor carries wreath in WW1 commemoration

A young sailor from Southport was humbled to play his part at the UK’s Commemoration Service to mark the start of World War 1 on Monday (August 4). 

Taking place at Glasgow Cathedral, followed by a wreath laying ceremony in George Square in the heart of the city, the service was attended by His Royal Highness The Duke of Rothesay, as The Prince of Wales is known in Scotland. 

He was joined by leaders from across The Commonwealth, including Prime Minister David Cameron. 

Able Rate Anthony Pyke was selected to take part in the memorial as a wreath bearer to Chief of the Defence Staff, General Sir Nick Houghton, at the Cenotaph in George Square. 

Working as a naval airman aircraft handler, the 26-year-old former student of Christ The King High School is currently based at Royal Navy Air Station (RNAS) Culdrose in Cornwall, but will join the Commando Helicopter Force at RNAS Yeovilton in September, where his duties will include maritime aviation fire and rescue, aircraft marshalling and co-ordination of aircraft ground movements. 

“I am proud to have been selected to take part at this ceremony in Glasgow,” said Anthony. “It is very important to me that I have been able to make even this small tribute in memory of all those who fought for our country, many losing their lives.” 

Joining the Royal Navy in October last year, Anthony’s posting to Yeovilton is his first job within the service.