Every year, HSDC’s South Downs Campus holds an incredibly touching Remembrance Day service, dedicated to the memory of a former student at the College.
On Tuesday 11 November 2025, hundreds of students and staff gathered at South Downs for the service dedicated to Royal Marine Richard Hollington. Richard studied Public Services at South Downs, and was the 300th British soldier to die in Afghanistan, losing his life in the conflict in 2010.
These students and staff watched on as South Downs’ Uniformed Services and Combined Cadet Force students performed a guard of honour. Wreaths were then presented by the students to Richard’s father and Assistant Principal Paul Carter, who then laid them at a tree planted in Richard’s memory.
Helen Hill was Richard’s tutor during his time at South Downs, and performed a reading of In Flanders Fields, followed by Paul Carter’s reading of The Exhortation. Level 3 Uniformed Services student Alexandros Katsis then read The Kohima Epitaph before students from Morelands Primary School were invited to place their remembrance crosses.
As the clock struck 11am, HSDC joined services all over the country for two minutes of remembrance and reflection.
Every year during Remembrance, The Richard Hollington Award is presented to someone who has shown the same exceptional care and support that Richard himself showed during his time at College. This year, the Award was presented by Head of Faculty Sam Game to Helen Hill. Sam said:
“This award is presented to Helen Hill for her outstanding commitment to HSDC’s Remembrance Parades over many years. Her dedication has ensured the message of remembrance is delivered with true respect and meaning, reflecting our shared values. Helen truly embodies the care, support and understanding that this award represents.”
Remembrance Day remains a poignant day for HSDC and the wider community, as we come together to remember a special man, and all those who have given their lives in service of their country.
We Will Remember Them.
