Parade marks 100 years since WW1 homecoming
THE 100th anniversary of the homecoming of those who had served during the First World War was marked with a parade through Town.
More than 80 islanders formed the parade, including Guernsey veterans, RAF cadets, TS Sarnia sea cadets, CCF corps of drums, the Guernsey Military History Company, Island Standards and CCF/ACF.
In 1919 there was a big homecoming parade through the streets of St Peter Port on 29 May led by 70 sailors.
Many of those returning had been in the Royal Guernsey Light Infantry, having served in it in the later stages of the war.
After severe losses at the Battle of the Lys in April 1918 it was effectively wiped out as a fighting unit and the men were allocated other duties.
Current members of the RGLI Charitable Trust headed to Winston Churchill Avenue, St Peter Port to watch the parade and inspection by the Bailiff Sir Richard Collas.
Yesterday was the nearest Sunday to the homecoming date from 100 years before, 21 May 1919.
The Seigneur of Sark, who is president of the Sark branch of the Royal British Legion, was also inspecting the parade with Sir Richard.
Standard bearer for the Royal Logistics Association Graham Edwards said he was pleased to be part of the parade which marked such an iconic point in time.
‘Guernsey has a strong military association going back centuries. Things like this keep the memories alive.’
Mr Edwards said it was important to remember the suffering of those who served and pass on that memory.
‘It’s great having lots of young cadets and such marching in the parade alongside the veterans.’
Parade marshal Graham Williams said the impressive turnout was a fantastic way to mark such a poignant moment.
‘When you think about how many went off [in the armed forces] and how many didn’t come back you realise how important it is to celebrate their lives and this is our way of saying thank you.’ he said.
‘Lots of their relatives are still in the island and some are even with us in the parade today.
‘Guernsey is very military orientated anyway and we do like a good parade.’
The march concluded at the Town Church to join the Sunday morning service.
