This coming Monday on August 4, Falmouth, and the rest of Britain, including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand will commemorate the 100th anniversary of their entry into “The Great War”, commonly known as World War One.

This conflict was to last four long years from 1914 to 1918, claiming the lives of millions from countries around the world, with Britain’s casualty list of 658,700 killed, 2,032,150 wounded, and 359,150 missing, ranking it as one of the deadliest conflicts in human history, “the war to end all wars”, as they were led to believe at the time.

Many of you who are reading this letter would have had parents, grandparents, great grandparents, great uncles and aunts etc, who would have served in the forces during this terrible time, and also those at home working in munitions and hospitals, not forgetting farming and other industries, in playing their part in supporting the war effort.

This Sunday, August 3 at noon until 3pm, I invite you all to Kimberley Park, Falmouth, where you can play your part in the commemorations, by attending the “Picnic in the Park” event. 

The event will start at noon, with a short commemoration service at the War Memorial, and the laying of a wreath by the mayor of Falmouth.

Entertainment will be provided by Pendennis Brass, and the Falmouth Gospel Community Choir. The Royal British Legion Bikers will also be in attendance, and everyone is encouraged to bring a picnic.

In the evening at 6pm you are all invited to attend “The Great War Commemoration Service” at the King Charles the Martyr Parish Church, arranged by “Churches Together”.

All faiths, denominations, groups etc have also been invited to come together, and attend this very special commemoration service of remembrance. Standard bearers representing The Royal Naval Association, and The Royal British Legion will be in attendance at both events.

On the following day, August 4, Falmouth will fall into line with the rest of the country by flying flags at half mast throughout the town, and at 11am, the mayor of Falmouth will lay a wreath on behalf of the town at “The Cross of Sacrifice” in the Old Falmouth Cemetery, following his opening of “The Great War Exhibition” in the Arcs of Fire Gallery, Killigrew Street at 9.30am.

I sincerely hope that most of you that have read this letter, will attend at least one of the above events with your families and friends to mark the centenary of The Great War. This is such a small thing to ask, for such a huge price that was paid by those who served and returned home, and to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.
 
Cllr David Saunby,
Chairman of the Great War Commemorations Working Group.