21 people were torn apart in Beamish today at an open air service dedicated to the victims of 21 gun salutes. The victims were torn apart limb from limb by howitzers, which are a mark of respect.The 21 came from all walks of life: terrorists, pundits, princes and princesses, etc., making this truly a national tragedy, in the words of Archbishop Alasdair Hube, and “one which has united us all - in grief.”
By a coincidence which has been hailed as curious, all 21 were 21 years old, and all born on the 21st day of the 21st month (i.e. November of the year after).
Critics have pointed to the high loss of life as, arguably, one negative feature of the event. But Armed Forces Minister Raymond Quaff read from a prepared statement which he found on his mantelpiece yesterday morning, saying, “It is key that fallout be minimised, and seen to be minimised.”
In an ironic twist, which will come as a mild surprise to some junior pundits, a leak from the Cabinet Office has revealed that the original salutes were themselves held prematurely to commemorate future victims of such salutes. “Clearly mistakes have been made,” added Quaff, “but also, an important lesson learned.”
A further service is to be held three weeks today to mark their passing.
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