In a heartfelt tribute to the 255 British service personnel who lost their lives during the Falklands War, Short Heath Lest We Forget organized a commemorative sponsored walk. The event aimed to honour the fallen heroes and raise funds to support veterans and community initiatives.

Participants embarked on a meaningful journey, reflecting on the sacrifices made during the 1982 conflict. The walk not only served as a poignant reminder of the bravery displayed by British forces but also strengthened community bonds as residents came together in shared remembrance.

It all started at 9:15am in Lichfield Cathedral where a military chaplain conducted a small service. At 9:30am, 40 years to the second since Governor Rex Hunt instructed the Royal Marine defenders to lay down their arms, the burglar played the last post and two minutes silence was observed.

Teams of 15 then set off on the 17 mile route (15 x 17 = 255) to walk a mile in memory of every man lost during the conflict. The route encompassed war memorials at Lichfield, Brownhills, Pelsall, Bloxwich, Essington and finally Short Heath in memory of the six ships that were lost during the war.

Three fundraising events were held on the day in memory of the three islanders who lost their lives during the war. After the walk there was an evening talk where Royal Navy veterans Guy “Tug” Wilson and Dave Coomer gave an emotional account of their experience and memories of the conflict. Many thanks to both of them for their valued contributions.

Thirdly, two local schools took part in the Operation Black Buck challenge. This was done in memory of the world’s longest-ever bombing mission that took place from Ascension Island to Port Stanley against occupying Argentinian forces.

Funds raised on the day were used to support a Falklands veteran charity and our two Falklands benches, one of which is located at the Short Heath Cenotaph, and the other outside the museum at Port Howard on the Falkland Islands.

The success of the event was evident in the community’s enthusiastic participation and the funds raised, which will be directed towards supporting veterans and local projects. Short Heath Lest We Forget has a history of engaging in such initiatives, including the installation of a new war memorial at Lane Head and organising events to honour veterans.

The organization extends its gratitude to all participants, volunteers, and supporters who contributed to the event’s success. Their collective efforts ensure that the memories of those who served in the Falklands War continue to be honoured and preserved for future generations.