War Graves in Iraq

[Terry Denham]

In the latest CWGC Annual Report (available free), there are pictures of the bound Rolls of Honour which are now on display in a glass case in CWGC's HQ in Maidenhead.

These bound books are a temporary alternative commemoration until CWGC can get back into Iraq to restore and renovate all the war grave sites and memorials in that country. It looks like the pages are turned periodically to display different names.

The Report also contains interesting pics and details of CWGC's work around the world including mention of problems in Gaza, Lebanon and Somalia (now being resolved). It all is a reminder of the enormity of the ongoing task started back in 1917!

[barrieduncan]

Just wondering Terry, do the war graves out in Iraq ever get vandalised at all? How were they originally maintained? Was there permanent staff based out there or did the staff travel over there every few months etc. Just curious as to how the graves in the more remote cemeteries are kept.

Thanks,

Barrie

[Terry Denham]

In more peaceful times vandalism was not common but, in the current situation, vandalism and destruction are frequent occurances. That is why CWGC has taken this action. In fact, the Basra Memorial has been declared 'unfitting' now due to damage and will be replaced at some point. There are several threads on this subject.

CWGC has had to contend with wars and uprisings in many countries plus political ideology getting in the way - Lebanon, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, Iran, Russia, China, Myanmar and others. They tend to simply bide their time until situations change and then move back in - often after decades (Russia being a good example).

Iraq is not really remote in normal times and CWGC maintained permanent staff - gardeners. To reduce costs, in some areas, these are travelling staff rather than 'on the spot' staff. They do not travel from the UK but are all local employees.

In really remote locations or where there are only one or two graves, CWGC makes arrangements with local governments, British embassies or even British ex-pat companies or individuals for care.

The one country where vanadlism is endemic and a constant source of concern is the United Kingdom!

[barrieduncan]

Thanks for that Terry. For what it's worth, I think you all do a grand job, obviously often in very difficult circumstances, well done.

Barrie

[Terry Denham]

For what it's worth, I think you all do a grand job, obviously often in very difficult circumstances, well done.

You mean 'they'.

I don't work for CWGC.