Two minutes silence

Jacqui Thompson's husband, Gary, was killed in Afghanistan in 2008 while serving with the RAF Regiment. The RAF Benevolent Fund was there for Jacqui and her daughters at this difficult time. Jacqui tells us what the two minutes silence on Remembrance Day means to her.

My husband, Gary Thompson, was killed in Afghanistan in 2008 when his vehicle was hit by a landmine. I cannot put into words how much I love and miss him. It was his first time in Afghanistan. He would ring us and write to us – his letters are here beside me in the bedside cabinet.

On Remembrance Day I honour and remember Gary the proud airman who wanted to make a difference. He was incredibly proud to wear his RAF uniform and serve his country, and I cannot put into words the pride I feel for him.

On Remembrance Day I get great comfort knowing that so many others are remembering and honouring our fallen.

The two minutes silence is incredibly emotional for me, as I remember standing by Gary's side holding his hand on previous Remembrance Days.

During the silence I think about the loss of Gary, my husband and my best friend. I think about the cost of his personal sacrifice, and I think about all the things he has missed with the daughters he adored.

I also think about all the others who paid the ultimate price, and will never forget what they have sacrificed. We could never begin to repay the debt we owe to our fallen heroes, but the act of remembrance keeps them with us.

Even though it unites the nation the silence is very personal. It tells the world just how much we care.

By Jacqui Thompson