Remember the fallen on Armistice Day

As the hour approaches 11am 11th 2011, Armistice Day, the nation will fall silent for two minutes to remember those who have fallen and sacrificed their lives for Britain.

There are some who wish not to observe the silence or wear a poppy but we should remember that many of our brave brothers who fought in the Great Wars and other conflicts, and it should be a moment for us to appreciate their invaluable contribution.

Many soldiers have come together to fight for a common cause regardless of religion, gender or social background.

The efforts of Britain's minority ethnic communites has largely been understated but it should not be forgotten that many have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend the country over the last 250 years.

It is worth exploring the stories of the men and women from Africa, Asia and the West Indies and other Commonwealth countries.

And those who wrongly judge the Muslim community in this country should take a look at a special report produced by the Muslim Council of Britain which outlines the long history of Muslims in the Armed Forces.

On this day of Remembrance lets honour our own soldiers but all those brave fighters around the world who have fought against tyranny and for a more just world.