My mother’s brother, Lieutenant Leonard Southwell, was born in 1889 and emigrated to Canada and joined the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
He later served with 60 Squadron Royal Flying Corps as a pilot in the First World War.
But he died from injuries while landing his plane after a mission over Northern France on March 14, 1918.
He was aged just 28.
His grave is at St Omer, which I have visited.
As his 93-year-old nephew, I am so glad I attended Tidworth Military Cemetery on Wednesday July 30 for the Wiltshire First World War Commemoration, organised by Wiltshire Council and the Royal British Legion.
From the moment of our arrival until leaving, everyone was courteously helped by the many marshalls on duty.
A Wall of Remembrance beautifully displayed 10,000 crosses, with poppies made by Wiltshire schoolchildren.
The Service of Remembrance was supported by the Royal British Legion standard bearers, the Salisbury Plain Military Wives’ Choir and a military band.
The address was made by the Venerable Alan Jeans, Archdeadon of Sarum.
It was a truly fitting tribute paid to the thousands of Wiltshire men and women who were caught up in the tragic events of the First World War.
I offer my congratulations and thanks to Wiltshire Council, 43 (Wessex) Brigade, and others who were involved in the excellent organisation of this event.
I am so pleased that the sun shone on everyone, helping to make this a truly memorable event.
Leonard Stuckey, Victoria Road, Devizes.
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