I walked the dogs in the cemetery today and went by the war graves as I often do. There are still roses in bloom in the WW2 area.
And the memorial for the local men lost in the first World War,
Then I went inside the little chapel where some local historians had set out some memorabilia
The best bit of all was meeting Terry Snow, a dear gentleman who was chatting to people about the war, to mark Remembrance Day this week. He was dressed in First World War uniform of 13th Middlesex Regiment, complete with rifle and bayonet.
Terry’s father, Gilbert Snow was a Lewis Gunner who fought in the battle of Amiens, northern France in WW1, he was injured but he survived, passing away in 1972. His war medals were lost when his home was cleared and sold.
Earlier this year it was Mr Snow junior’s 75th birthday, an extra special one for him. After many years of searching antique shops and websites, on that very day, he found his father’s Victory Medal online and was able to purchase it. Today he wore it with great pride.
I felt very privileged, and emotional, when Terry told me this story, it’s one I shall remember each year on the second Sunday in November.
Lucid Gypsy 
What a story and what a find? What are the chances of finding that medal. The ending warms my heart. Thank you, Gilly.
What a wonderful event. As like many, so understated.
This must have been a very moving experience, Gilly. How wonderful that Terry was able to trace his father’s medal. Thanks for sharing. It brought a tear to my eye.
What an incredible full circle story. Thank you for sharing this!
Love the photo of the church and the story of the finding of the medals. What an encounter, on a walk you often take. Thank you for making this story part of my Sunday.
Nice post with great pictures..
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That is a pretty substantial collection of war graves. I have not seen anything like it in this country before.
And how amazing that Terry Snow was able to find his father’s medal. I hope he has made provision for where it goes when he dies and the next generation doesn’t have to go the ebay route as well.
Great memories of heroes Gilly ..Thanks for sharing .
thanks for such a heart warming post 🙂 ❤ you took us along so smoothly and cheers to Terry Snow
How a token, a symbol can mean so much. Nice timely story, Gil.
What a wonderful place walk your dogs, first of all. My dogs would love it. Plus, the story about the metal is SO lovely! Imagine being able to find it after so many years!
I’m trying to get my butt back in the saddle. I did manage to post something a month ago, but have been busy teaching workshops, looking at self-hosting my blog and writing my memoir (yes, I’ve been doing that), but I will make an effort to get something new out this week, including photos of our new home.
Sorry to have been gone for SO damn long!.
Hugs from Ecuador,
Kathy
It’s the closest place with lots of fabulous trees, very quiet for a meditative walk and yes the dogs love it – there are squirrels to gaze at. Terry was a lovely man to meet, lucky me!
It’s always good to read you or have you visit whenever you can and I’m looking forward to seeing some photos etc. What kind of workshops have you been teaching?
I used to ride Magi through the old cemeteries around here, and read the tombstones. It’s amazing how many people have occupied this earth over time.
The orples want to come play in your blog, Gilly. … and I think I ‘fixed’ our link, which has been a problem for us, in Orpleland. i was wondering why you haven’t been posting anything lately. Now I know. Thanks for stopping by our place for a visit. 🙂 Marcy
A heartwarming story Gilly. Does the medal have his fathers name inscribed?
Yes, I couldn’t photograph it with my mobile though!
Makes it all the more amazing!