Lest we forget

"Lest we forget" is a phrase commonly used in war remembrance services and commemorative occasions in English speaking countries, usually those connected to the British Empire, like Canada and Australia.

The phrase occurs eight times; and is repeated at the end of the first four stanzas in order to add particular emphasis regarding the dangers of failing to remember.

The concept of 'being careful not to forget' was already present in the Bible (Deuteronomy 4:7–9): This Biblical quote is probably a direct source for the term in the 1897 poem.

This is consistent with the main theme of the "Recessional" poem – that if a nation forgets the true source of its success (the "Lord God of Hosts" and His "ancient sacrifice" of "a humble and contrite heart") – its military or material possessions will be insufficient in times of war.

[citation needed] The poem "Recessional" also appears as a common hymn at war remembrance services; and the phrase "Lest We Forget" can hence be sung.