War Graves organisation is inviting South Derbyshire public to see 'stories in plain sight'

By The View, Church Gresley

THE Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) is inviting people in Church Gresley and beyond to discover the human stories behind war graves in their local communities.

People are also invited to share their own histories this month, as War Graves Week (16-24 May) returns with a nationwide programme of events and activities. 

The CWGC says that, across South Derbyshire, extraordinary war stories are ‘hidden in plain sight’ – etched into headstones in cemeteries and memorial sites that many people pass every day without a second glance.

It adds that, behind each stone is a life, a family, and a story of service and sacrifice, forming part of a global legacy spanning more than 150 countries and territories.

The CWGC is encouraging people in South Derbyshire to discover the remarkable stories on their doorstep and, if they have a story of their own to tell, to share it as part of the its global storytelling platform, For Evermore.

In South Derbyshire, the CWGC cares for around 90 war graves and memorials across sites including local cemeteries and churchyards.

One example is Edna Woodward, who is commemorated at Church Gresley Cemetery. 

Edna served in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force and is the only female casualty buried in Church Gresley Cemetery. Edna sadly died at the age of 22 whilst serving at a Top-Secret airfield.

Another story is that of John Joseph Swindall from the Corps of Military Police, who is also commemorated at Church Gresley Cemetery. 

He was tragically killed in a road accident at the age of 27. It’s reported that following the accident his pistol was mysteriously stolen from his body.

As part of War Graves Week, a War Graves Tour will take place at Church Gresley Cemetery on Sunday, May 17, offering local people the opportunity to learn more about the history in their area.

Megan Maltby, Head of Public Engagement at the Commonwealth War Graves Commission said: “War Graves Week is an opportunity for people to see familiar places in a new light. 

“In South Derbyshire, there are stories of courage, loss and resilience that are part of the community’s history yet often go unnoticed in everyday life. 

“We are encouraging everyone to explore local CWGC sites in the area and share their own stories to connect South Derbyshire to our shared global history.”

Local people can get involved by visiting their nearest CWGC site, attending an event, discovering stories in their area, or sharing their own story online.

To find out more, explore events near you, or share a story, visit HERE.