The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) has launched a new awareness campaign ahead of its first War Graves Week.
From 17 May, homeowners around the UK will receive a copy of a historic postcard written by one of 24 individuals who died in the First or Second World War.
The postcards will encourage local people to find out more about Commonwealth casualties buried in their local area during War Graves Week, which will run from 21 to 28 May.
Claire Horton CBE, Director General of the CWGC, said: “I am delighted to announce the Commission’s first ever War Graves Week.
“Remembrance Day and anniversaries will always have a place in our work, but War Graves Week is an opportunity for communities to connect with their local heritage in a different way; when the days are longer, when the plants are in bloom, and our cemeteries can be seen in a completely different light.
“We want people to see that work in action and make a local discovery.
“Many people already know about their family’s links to the World Wars, but all of us have somewhere we call home today, and those places have their own stories too.”
All of us have somewhere we call home today, and those places have their own stories
The CWGC has also launched a special postcode search function on its website.
Members of the public can enter their postcode to discover First and Second World War casualties who lived near their house.
During War Graves Week, CWGC teams across the country will hold skilled demonstrations, cemetery tours, online and socially distanced events and school visits.
Rosemary Collins is the staff writer of Who Do You Think You Are? Magazine
