On Thursday, 17 October, Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP visited Dishforth Cemetery to meet with representatives from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) and learn more about their vital work in maintaining war graves and memorials.
Julian met with Elizabeth Smith, Public Engagement Coordinator, and Gareth Crossman, Head of Government Relations and Public Affairs to tour the site and pay tribute to the 78 servicemen from the Second World War, most of whom were airmen stationed at the nearby RAF Dishforth, including many from the Royal Canadian Air Force.
During the tour, Elizabeth gave Julian backstories to some of those buried within the cemetery as well as those previously buried and since moved.
Julian praised the CWGC’s mission to honour the 1.7 million Commonwealth men and women who lost their lives during the two World Wars and discussed the importance of preserving these memorials for future generations.
Following the visit, Julian said, “It was a privilege to visit Dishforth Cemetery and see the work of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in maintaining these important memorials. As we approach Remembrance Day, it is vital that we continue to honour those who gave their lives in service to our country and I am grateful for the CWGC’s efforts in ensuring that these stories are not forgotten.”
Head of Government Relations and Public Affairs at the CWGC, Gareth Crossman, said: "It is great to see parliamentarians are engaging with the important work we do, and connecting with the stories of the local service men and women buried in their communities.
"We have loved hearing their own stories and links with both world wars, and during this period of Remembrance, we'd encourage everyone to discover and add their own stories to our online story bank, For Evermore."
The CWGC commemorates nearly 500 individuals across 59 locations in Julian’s constituency, with the largest number of commemorations at Ripon Cemetery. The visit served as a poignant reminder of the region’s historical connection to the World Wars and the ongoing work to preserve its legacy.
For more information about the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, visit www.cwgc.org.
