The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) is set to welcome the public to a series of open days throughout September at some of its most significant cemeteries and memorials across Great Britain, France, and Belgium.
These events offer a unique opportunity for visitors to engage deeply with the history of the World Wars, learn about the meticulous work involved in maintaining these sites, and explore the stories of the men and women who are commemorated.
Remembering the Sacrifices of the Past
As the world marks 80 years since some of the pivotal actions of the Second World War, the CWGC invites the public to reflect on the sacrifices made on the path to liberation. Across Great Britain, open days will be held at various CWGC sites, allowing visitors to learn more about the Commission’s enduring commitment to honoring those who fell in both World Wars.
“These open days are the perfect opportunity for the public to come and learn more about the work of the CWGC,” said Megan Maltby, CWGC’s Public Engagement Manager. “By visiting your local war graves and hearing their stories, we can ensure the memory of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice lives on.”
Great Britain: A Nation Remembers
Throughout England, Scotland, and Wales, a range of tours will be available at CWGC sites. Visitors will have the chance to meet with team members who dedicate their lives to maintaining these historic cemeteries and memorials. The tours will offer insights into the Commission’s ongoing efforts to preserve these sites for future generations, ensuring that the legacy of those who served is remembered for the next 100 years.
France: Commemorating the Fallen and the Work of Recovery
On the weekend of September 21-22, the CWGC will host open days at its visitor centre in Arras, France. On Saturday, attendees will learn about the new cemetery extension project at Loos British Cemetery, a significant undertaking to construct a cemetery for First World War casualties over a century after the conflict ended.
Sunday’s event will focus on the vital work of the CWGC’s Recovery Unit. Visitors will gain insight into the complex process of recovering and identifying individuals from the battlefields, a testament to the CWGC’s ongoing mission to honor every fallen soldier.
Both days will feature demonstrations and presentations from CWGC experts, offering a comprehensive understanding of the Commission’s work in France and around the globe.
Belgium: Pilgrimages of Remembrance
In Belgium, the CWGC’s new visitor centre at the iconic Menin Gate in Ieper will be the hub for a series of events throughout September. A century after thousands of pilgrims visited the Ypres Salient in the aftermath of the Great War, the CWGC invites modern-day visitors to follow in their footsteps with two specially curated tours.
The 4km walking tour and the 16km bike tour offer different ways to explore the southern salient. These tours allow visitors to uncover hidden features in the cemeteries, learn about the CWGC’s history in Belgium, and reflect on the stories of those commemorated there. After the tours, visitors can return to the centre for light refreshments and further discussions with CWGC staff.
A Legacy of Care and Commemoration
The CWGC’s open days provide a rare glimpse into the ongoing work of an organisation dedicated to the memory of those who served and sacrificed during the World Wars. Visitors from previous tours have expressed deep appreciation for the knowledge and dedication of the CWGC staff.
“We enjoyed our tour very much. Our guide was excellent and gave us detailed information on the Commonwealth war graves. He answered any questions we had. We would certainly recommend and look forward to attending another tour,” shared one visitor.
Another attendee remarked, “I was expecting to be better informed; I was not expecting to be so completely moved by the experience. Completely blown away by the effort, commitment, and hard work put into caring for all those who lost their lives and sacrificed their all.”
Image Source:
- War Graves: Picryl
