RCBB listened to a most interesting and informative talk this week, given by Fiona Smith from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Fiona outlined the work done by the Commission from its inception in 1917, right up to the present day, when it honours the 1.7 million casualties of both world wars, and those from more present day hostilities, maintaining the cemeteries both at home and around the world in over 23,000 locations.
Items of note included the fact that the shape of the headstones caused much friction and debate, as well as ensuring that every one of the fallen was treated equally. Rudyard Kipling wrote many of the epitaphs on memorials, and Edward Lutyens was the designer of the Cross of Sacrifice. And still, after all this time, around 50 bodies are discovered where they fell on the battlefields each year.
A poignant but uplifting talk gave all the members a great perspective on the work undertaken by the Commission.
more Rob Williams - Senior Development Manager of Connection Support the charity that has merged with Burnham's Padstones
more Matt Palmer, Development Director of Heathrow, on the future expansion of the airport
more Rtn Sharon Westby from the Medaille Trust on Human Trafficking
more Tim Wright Chief Executive of Green Corridor and Mark Cox presented to us on 26 April 2018
more Speaker Report
more A topical talk by The Head Master of Reading Bluecoats School - August 2017
more Rtn Keith Miller was involved in the marine salvage operation of the stricken cruise liner. Keith gave a talk to the Club in April 2018
more A brief history of Rtn Michael Adigun's career.
more Beekeeper Tom gave an insight into the unusual job of looking after Heathrow's bees - September 2017
more Speaker Report
more A Talk Commemorating the Start of the First World War
more The chairman of Maidenhead Waterways on the rejuvenation of the town centre
more Jill Haynes - Book Aid International
more Elise describes her plans to visit Peru - August 2017
more Brian gave a talk on East Berkshire Executive Job Club - July 2017
more Report on Meeting Speaker
more A talk by Gail Burton and Jan Fountain on Arbour Vale Special Needs School
back Brief reports on speaker presentations at recent club meetings