Haberdashers’ Monmouth School commemorates Armistice Day with special tribute to former Head Boy and Victoria Cross recipient Angus Buchanan

Haberdashers’ Monmouth School marked Armistice Day on 11 November with a solemn Act of Remembrance in the school Chapel, attended by pupils, staff, alumni, members of the armed forces community and local organisations.

This year’s service held special significance as the school welcomed Mrs Aldyth Davies, second cousin of Captain Angus Buchanan VC, one of the school’s most distinguished former pupils and namesake of Buchanan House. Captain Buchanan, a former Head Boy, received the Victoria Cross for bravery during the First World War and went on to study Law at Oxford University after losing his sight in combat.

Mrs Davies shared her personal family connection, explaining how her father, Private David Howell Hopkin, served as Captain Buchanan’s reader during his time at Jesus College, Oxford.

“For two years he became Angus’ eyes — attending lectures with him, taking notes and discussing them late into the night, often with Thomas Edward Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia. Their bond shaped both of their lives.”

She added: “It is a great honour to be here and to see the high esteem in which Angus is held. To witness first-hand how his legacy lives on in this community is truly wonderful.”

The service was led by Mother Alycia, School Chaplain, with support from the Royal Naval Association Monmouth Branch and attendance from pupils in Years 6, 7 and 8.

“Today is a sacred pause,” said Mother Alycia. “A moment to give thanks for those who laid down their lives, and to pray that peace, hard-earned and deeply cherished, continues to guide our world.”

Readings were delivered by Sean, Year 11 Chapel Warden (The Word of God), Head Girl Lily (They Shall Grow Not Old) and Headmaster Mr Melvyn Roffe (When You Go Home).

Wreaths were laid by Head Boy Feargus, Prep Deputy Head Boy and Girl, Mayson and Delilah, alongside representatives of the Royal Naval Association, Royal British Legion and RAF.

Mary Shipton, Chairman of the Royal Naval Association Monmouth Branch, said that it was “an honour. I come most years and the school always holds such a beautiful service.”

RAF Standard Bearer John Walker added: “The pride and respect shown here today is powerful and so important in the world we live in.”

Head Girl Lily and Head Boy Feargus said: “Today was a deeply moving service, a moment where our school community stood together in gratitude. It made us reflect on those who gave their tomorrow so we might have our today.”

Headmaster Mr Melvyn Roffe emphasised the importance of remembrance within the school community and the wider town:

“It is essential that we mark this day with the utmost dignity and respect, remembering the pupils who gave their lives for our freedoms. Their sacrifice is woven into our history and identity, and the presence of Mrs Davies today reminds us that this legacy is living, personal and deeply rooted in our community.”

“Remembrance binds all elements of our town together. Every year we take our place alongside others who serve and represent Monmouth, fulfilling our duty to pass on to future generations an understanding of the true price of freedom and the real cost of conflict.”

The Last Post was performed by student Robert Burnett, followed by a two-minute silence observed across the Chapel and whole school.