3 APRIL 2024, DOUGLAS, ISLE OF MAN—To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) is inviting local businesses, schools, and other community organisations across the Isle of Man to take part in a special series of talks on the island.
The series called “Legacy of Liberation” focuses on honouring the legacies of those who didn’t return from WWII and how we commemorate them and their legacy. These talks are dedicated to learning more about the heritage of the Isle of Man and the sacrifices of those who served during this pivotal moment in history.
Local organisations can learn about how 363 servicemen and servicewomen are commemorated here in the Isle of Man by the CWGC. This includes learning about the stories of individuals such as Thomas Quayle, who died during the Normandy invasions and is now commemorated at Douglas Borough Cemetery. Subject to the Manx weather, schools and other community organisations can attend local cemeteries to see the commemorations first-hand.
As we approach this significant milestone, the CWGC aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacrifices made by the servicemen and servicewomen during the World Wars. These talks will be delivered by CWGC representatives who are committed to preserving the memory of the fallen heroes commemorated across war graves and memorials worldwide.
Event Details:
Audience: Local businesses, charities, support groups, educational institutions, and other community organisations on the Isle of Man
Format: In-person talks delivered by a trained CWGC speaker
Booking: Available on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability. Book online at https://www.cwgc.org/our-work/outreach/speakers-programme/cwgc-talks/
The talks will cover various topics, including the history and heritage of war graves on the Isle of Man, stories of individual heroism and sacrifice, and the CWGC’s ongoing commitment to memorialising those who have fallen. Participants will gain insight into the global scale of the Commission’s work and the local significance of war graves and memorials in the Manx community.
This initiative not only honours the memory of those who lost their lives during the D-Day landings and throughout both World Wars but also serves as a powerful educational tool, inspiring future generations to remember and respect the sacrifices made for their freedoms today.
Local groups interested in booking a talk are encouraged to contact the CWGC as soon as possible to secure their place in this commemorative programme. For booking and further inquiries, please email michael@michaeljosem.com or book directly online at https://www.cwgc.org/our-work/outreach/speakers-programme/cwgc-talks/
Since many community organisations on the Isle of Man will suspend meetings during the TT fortnight, this will limit events during the week of the D-Day commemorations on 6 June. Talks can be organised for another suitable time throughout 2024.
About the Commonwealth War Graves Commission:
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) commemorates the 1.7 million Commonwealth servicemen and women who died during the two world wars. It operates in over 150 countries and territories, maintaining memorials and gravesites with the utmost care and dedication to ensure that the sacrifices of the Commonwealth forces will never be forgotten. 363 people are commemorated across 21 sites in the Isle of Man.
Contact:
Michael Josem
Volunteer CWG speaker
+44 7624 488 557
michael@michaeljosem.com
For more information about the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and the 80th anniversary commemorations, please visit our website at cwgc.org
