By KLTV Newsdesk –

KLTV visited Edgerton Cemetery to meet Elizabeth Smith and Sam Eccles from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) and to learn more about the vital work being done to care for and preserve the war graves throughout the cemetery.

In this film, Elizabeth and Sam explain how the Commission maintains the graves of servicemen and servicewomen from both World Wars, and how volunteers across the UK play a crucial role in keeping these historic sites clean, safe and well cared for.

They discuss the work carried out by volunteers, from inspecting headstones and checking their condition to cleaning graves and reporting any damage.

The film also explores the history and significance of the cemetery’s Cross of Sacrifice, one of the Commission’s recognisable memorials found in war grave sites around the world, as well as the different styles of headstones used throughout the UK.

With more than 1.7 million Commonwealth casualties commemorated in over 23,000 locations across 150 countries, the work of the CWGC relies heavily on the support of dedicated volunteers.

Sam explains why Edgerton Cemetery is currently looking for more local volunteers to help continue preserving the graves and stories of those who served.

Have you ever visited a Commonwealth war grave in your local area? Let us know in the comments!

To find out more about the Commonwealth War Graves Commission or how to volunteer, visit the CWGC website: https://www.cwgc.org/