I HAVE just returned to Canada after spending an amazing weekend in Trowbridge celebrating Armed Forces weekend.
What a wonderful event it was for me. I will have special memories of those celebrations which will remain with me forever. Many thanks goes to Maryrose Mantle who oversaw a well organised event, and to Graham Adlam who enabled me to have the emotional experience of starting up the engine of a Spitfire and imagine how it felt for my late father, F/O Bob McCracken RCAF and POW, to fly his beloved Spitfire over England and Europe during WW2. My memories will remain more complete with thanks to Wiltshire Times’ Trevor Porter for photos and the write-up by Richard Mills. The interview set up by BBC Wiltshire’s Claire Linstead truly reflected my feelings about the entire weekend. Thank you for sharing my story.
The many displays set up by the Armed Forces, the Legion, the re-enactments, the land girls, the WW1 trenches, books and photos honouring the Wiltshire soldiers of the Great War, and tributes by schoolchildren, were all such meaningful ways to honour those who went bravely to protect their homeland and bring peace to those in peril.
The Drumhead Service was a very fitting tribute to those whose lives were lost and to those who continue to serve in the various Armed Forces. It was enjoyable to hear the choirs and bands, and watch the parade along with so many spectators who dressed in styles of the 1940s. Of course tea time was appreciated following true British tradition.
I would also like to thank all of the kind, friendly people who spoke to me and shared their stories with me during the weekend. Your country will always honour and remember those that protected Great Britain and those who continue to do so in present times. All of you reflect the goodness in our world today. Let this be an example for others.
Sandy McCracken
Lakefield, Ontario
Canada