A trip to Flanders – the opportunity for our group of sixth form students to actually see the sites where thousands of soldiers gave their lives for our freedom was always guaranteed to be an emotional rollercoaster.
Just over ninety years ago, we could have been standing here – not as privileged students of St Mary’s High School but as conscripted infantryman…or cannon fodder!
Our Head of English had included a very precise list of requirements for the trip and indeed her suggestions had been followed to the letter; my bags were bulging.
However, I carried an extra piece of ‘luggage’ – and although, tucked inside my jacket pocket, it represented a lighter burden than the wellingtons, walking boots and layers of warm clothing, its importance represented a heavy responsibility.
Private Arthur W. Taylor, 16629, serving with 10th Battalion, Sherwood Foresters, died on 14 February 1916, aged 38 – and I am proud to say, he was my great, great grandfather.
My own grandfather had contacted the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and had learned that Private Taylor was buried in Bedford House Cemetery. His grave had never been visited by a direct descendent and also in my bag was a poppy – with the names of my grandfather and myself. My mission was to place this poppy on his grave, with the prayers and thanks of my family – to assure him that although gone, he is not forgotten and that because of his sacrifice and the thousands of men who died through the Great War, we have our liberty. Because of their selfless sacrifice, I can look forward to the opportunities of university.
The Bedford House cemetery was not on our planned itinerary but when I showed the letter to the staff team they immediately supported my undertaking.
My journey ended on Thursday 6th November – just a few days before the anniversary of the end of World War 1.
My steps from the coach were heavy with emotion and the support that I received from my fellow students was incredible. A text message joined me to my family across the Channel and there were many tears shed that day – of thanks, of peace…and of joy - it was a mission accomplished, a campaign won.
by Matt Rogers
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