Gallipoli Memorial Service on 13th August 2016 in memory of 101st Anniversary of the campaign @ St Nicholas Church, Dersingham, Norfolk.

In the beautiful sunshine in Dersingham village, the congregation gathered for this important service led by the Mayor of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Councillor David Whitby. It was to remember all those that gave their lives and those who suffered in the Gallipoli campaig including those who were defending their country. In this part of Norfolk the local men from the 5th Battalion of the Norfolk Regiment were also remembered.

 
The solemn service was conducted by the Rev Mark Capron who welcomed all, many of whom had travelled great distances in order to attend. 18 Standards entered the church led by the Gallipoli & Dardanelles Standard, followed by three French Standards. Together with British Legion Standards there were Guides, Scouts, Sea Cadets and the Life Boat Institution.

 
It was the most international service yet with officers representing Turkey, Australia, New Zealand, France, India, Canada and the UK. For the first time, a retired officer attended representing the Gurkhas. The congregation similarly reflected the countries involved in the campaign. Representatives also came from the Air Force, Police and the Fire Brigade, together with Sea Cadets. Local organisations including the British Legion were representated. Many present had relatives involved in the campaign.

 
Children from Scouts, Guides, Rainbows, Brownies and Beaver Cubs atten ded with adults supervising. One of the Rainbow
Cubs laid a wreath which was most touching.

 
The moving words of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk were read by Captain Nurettin Sevi, Defence and Naval Attache at the Turkish Embassy in London.
15 wreaths were laid after which Lt Cmdr Arthur Coxon RN (Ret) read the words from Laurence Binyon’s poem of remembrance followed by the Last Post and Reveile.

 
After the service all went to the Church Hall for tea/coffee and ANZAC biscuits. The organiser John Crowe, President of Gallipoli & Dardanelles then extended a very warm welcome to one and all. His father had also served at Gallipoli and was wounded.

 
WE WILL REMEMBER THEM.