Ypres, Belgium 21-23 March 2025

The Menin Gate, located in Ypres, Belgium, is a poignant symbol of the immense sacrifices made during World War I, particularly by the British and Commonwealth forces. Standing as a memorial to the fallen soldiers of the First World War, the gate bears the names of over 54,000 men who died in the Ypres Salient but have no known graves. It is a place of remembrance, reflection, and reverence for the countless lives lost in the conflict. The significance of the Menin Gate cannot be overstated, as it serves as a reminder of the horrors of war and the bravery of those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. The daily Last Post ceremony, held since 1928, is a solemn tradition that honours the fallen, with buglers sounding the Last Post at 8 PM every evening.

For the Custodians Motorcycle Club, laying a wreath at the Menin Gate during our trip was a deeply meaningful act of remembrance and respect. As a club that represents Crown Servants—those who risk their lives in service to others—the Menin Gate resonated strongly with our members. The bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment displayed by those soldiers parallels the values we hold as members of the Custodians MC. Our decision to lay a wreath at this hallowed site was not only a tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War I but also an acknowledgment of the ongoing sacrifice made by those who serve today. It was a way for our club to honor both the past and present, reflecting on the duty and honor that binds us as individuals and as a community committed to safeguarding the freedoms we cherish.