In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved, and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
Every blog I’ve read today by a Canadian is like-minded. Including my own.
Thank you.
thanks Andrew.
let’s never forget.
Is this particular grave of any family significance to you Andrew?
No Ric, it’s just a random Canadian grave in northern France, not far from Vimy Ridge.
Cemetery is La Targette:
http://www.cwgc.org/search/cemetery_details.aspx?cemetery=59200&mode=1
The grave pictured belongs to Edgar Alden of Quebec, aged 19. He died September 21, 1917.
http://www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=530603
Through the power of the internet, Private Alden comes back.
Copies of his attestation papers are available online for viewing.
Front of form:
http://data2.archives.ca/cef/well1/204803a.gif
Back:
http://data2.archives.ca/cef/well1/204803b.gif
Well done Andrew. I know that your grandfather would be very, very proud of your work and commemoration.
Definitly a great resource, I’ve used the War Grave Commission & Collections Canada website many times…here are two of my relatives.
http://www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2068204
http://www.cwgc.org/search/casualty_details.aspx?casualty=2333449
Both Windsor born.