The event was attended by politicians, military personnel, veterans, historians, and youth organisations. 1st Amesbury Girls’ Brigade represented all members and volunteers in England and Wales, by sending one of their Co-Team Leaders (Anthea) and two members of the n:gage section (Pippa and Madison, both 11 years old) to represent Girls’ Brigade at such an important event.
Upon arrival at Downing Street, security screening was completed quickly and after a selection of photographs outside the worldwide famous number 10 door, our trio entered Downing Street and explored the famous corridors before being ushered through to the Downing Street gardens. Madison said ‘The experience was so exciting. We met other people our age and got to play traditional WW2 era games. The veterans and family members were very kind, and it was wonderful to be part of a such an important and historic event.’
Pippa had a conversation with Lady Starmer about her great great uncle. Pippa recalled ‘My great great uncle, Joe Foulger, was sent to Singapore in 1942 as a corporal in the RAMC. My grandfather told me that he was taken captive shortly after his arrival and taken as a POW to Thailand. He had to work under terrible conditions as a medic on the Thai/Burma railway and on a Japanese airfield. He was held captive for two and a half years before being liberated from UBON camp in 1945, aged 25 years old. He never recovered from the experience and never talked about it. Joe was a member of the Far Eastern POW association and the Burma Star Association. He died in 1993, aged 74 years old.’
Anthea spoke with Lady Starmer, different historians, military veterans, family members, politicians, a member of the department for culture, media and sport, and a BBC journalist. Anthea said ‘it was an incredible honour to represent Girls’ Brigade England & Wales at such a historic event. It was humbling to hear the stories of valour and hardship that have stayed with people for their entire lives. It was also a fantastic opportunity to highlight the amazing work that so many unpaid volunteers do with the youth of today to instil self-control, reverence and a sense of responsibility to help them lead and seek an enriched life.’
Whilst Anthea, Pippa and Madison attended 10 Downing Street, five representatives from 1st Amesbury Girls' Brigade joined the Amesbury Branch of the Royal British Legion, veterans, families, military personnel, the mayor, and other youth organisations to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory in Japan.
Leaders Leanne and Philipa carried the Girls' Brigade colours and said 'Parading at a remembrance service is a powerful way to honour those who served and sacrificed in times of way. It shows respect, unity, and gratitude, helping to keep the memory of their courage and commitment alive for future generations. We are honoured to witness our daughter's laying a wreath in remembrance.'
The wreath was laid by two younger member, Grace and Emily. They said 'It was a great honour to represent our Girls' Brigade group and to lay a wreath alongside the Royal British Legion, military officers, other youth organisations, and the Amesbury Mayor.'
