Scotty Posted 20 October , 2009 Posted 20 October , 2009 Hello all, Last Wednesday a service to rehallow the grave of Pte Phillips was held at Bray Vale British Cemetery. This wonderful gesture was arranged by two gentlemen who I consider to be a credit to their organisations. They are the Chairman of the RBL (Somme Branch) Mr Rod Bedford, and the Director CWGC (France), Mr David Symons. Their kindness and understanding will always be remembered by my family. Heartfelt thanks to all who attended and payed their respects, particularly Pierre Vandervelden who placed a wreath on behalf of my family. The service was conducted by The Reverand John Porter, Chaplain, and a wreath was also placed by the British Military Attache RAF. The RBL Standard and bugler also attended. I believe the morning was chilly but had lots of sunshine. I have attached some photos. Scott.
Scotty Posted 20 October , 2009 Author Posted 20 October , 2009 Thanks to the CWGC driver who took these photos with Pierre's camera. The RBL recorded the service also.
Peter Bennett Posted 20 October , 2009 Posted 20 October , 2009 Scotty Apologies if I have missed an earlier thread. What was the reason for the re-hallowing ? Regards Peter
AlanCurragh Posted 20 October , 2009 Posted 20 October , 2009 Scott - after all your work on this, I can imagine how proud and pleased you must be that William's grave is now correctly marked. You should take a bow yourself Alan
Scotty Posted 20 October , 2009 Author Posted 20 October , 2009 Hello Peter, Sorry about that. My last thread about Pte Phillips was quite some sime ago. Without going into too much detail, he had rested in a misidentified grave since 1923. The headstone of the other soldier was removed in 2008 and replaced with one commemorating Pte Phillips. It has taken 11 years for me to reach this point. Scott. Photo of Pierre placing the wreath.
Scotty Posted 20 October , 2009 Author Posted 20 October , 2009 Thank you Alan. I won't forget the part you played. Did you get my e-mail?
Peter Bennett Posted 20 October , 2009 Posted 20 October , 2009 Hello Peter, Sorry about that. My last thread about Pte Phillips was quite some sime ago. Without going into too much detail, he had rested in a misidentified grave since 1923. The headstone of the other soldier was removed in 2008 and replaced with one commemorating Pte Phillips. It has taken 11 years for me to reach this point. Scott. Photo of Pierre placing the wreath. Scott I do remember this now and I think I know who the other soldier was. Without mentioning his name, where is he thought to be buried or commemorated. Peter
Scotty Posted 20 October , 2009 Author Posted 20 October , 2009 Peter, He is "Believed to Be" in Cote 80 French National Cemetery, Etinehem.
Andrew P Posted 21 October , 2009 Posted 21 October , 2009 Hi Scott Great to see that all your work finally resulted in Pte Phillip's correct identification & commemoration. Regards Andrew
Peter Woodger Posted 21 October , 2009 Posted 21 October , 2009 Hi In order not to steal this happy thread I have started another called Spare a thought for Pte Corsie. Peter
Scotty Posted 21 October , 2009 Author Posted 21 October , 2009 Hi Scott Great to see that all your work finally resulted in Pte Phillip's correct identification & commemoration. Regards Andrew Andrew, Thank you for your kind words. Greatly appreciated Hi In order not to steal this happy thread I have started another called Spare a thought for Pte Corsie. Peter Thanks for that Peter. I look forward to it. Scott.
Recommended Posts
Create an account or sign in to comment
You need to be a member in order to leave a comment
Create an account
Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!
Register a new accountSign in
Already have an account? Sign in here.
Sign In Now