Lest We Forget

Nov 11

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It is now 103 years since the end of the First World War.

Today we remember those whose sacrifices both in that War and since have enabled us to enjoy the freedoms we have today.

We will never forget them.

I am reminded of this in the personal sacrifices of members of my Wife’s family in 1917.

We have visited Ypres twice in recent years following the final days of my Wife’s great Uncles who were killed at Passchendaele in 1917. Visiting there was a remarkable and very moving experience.

David Andrews ,from Larne in Northern Ireland, was reported as “missing in action” at Passchendaele in the Ypres area on 17th August 1917.  His body was never recovered. David was serving as a Lance Corporal with the 14th Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles when he was killed.
Tragically his brother, Frank, was also killed on the very same day, also at Ypres, but serving in the 9th Battalion of the Royal Irish Fusiliers.   Two brothers killed on the same day. 
They and many hundreds of thousands also killed in the Ypres area, are commemorated on the magnificent Tyne Cot War Grave Memorial at Ypres. Their Battalions had only engaged that day.  Their other brother Harry also served in the First World War and was gassed, but he returned home eventually. Alas many of their friends never did.

 

We will always remember the great sacrifices made by so many over 100 years ago and since, in too many conflicts.Their sacrifice gives us all the freedoms we enjoy today.

Brian

About brianswatercolours

After spending 40 years in Aerospace I now enjoy painting watercolours of our travels around the world. I also paint for others who would like reminders of there favourite places. Most of my paintings are painted from photos that I have taken, or taken by others. This blog shows some paintings from Yvonne's and my travels together. Have look at my other Blog www.aquarellesdefrance.wordpress.com

Posted on November 11, 2021, in Paintings from our travels. Bookmark the permalink. 2 Comments.

  1. Andrea Neidle | November 11, 2021 at 12:50 pm

    A lovely painting and great sentiment.

    Reply
  2. dag59 | November 11, 2021 at 2:32 pm

    Well said Brian, we will never forget. Hope you and Yvonne are well. We are going on Viking Mediterranean Antiquities – Barcelona to Greece. Perhaps you can join? Stay healthy and happy!! David

    Reply

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