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The Battle of Graveney is remembered

by Katie Alston

The last battle to be fought on British mainland soil, which
ended with German Prisoners of War being taken for a pint, has been
commemorated.

Marking the 70th anniversary of the battle of
Graveney Marshes yesterday more than 100 people gathered for the
unveiling of a plaque at the Sportsman pub in Seasalter.

The ceremony also celebrated the 95th anniversary of the London
Irish Rifles getting their second battle honour on their standard
for the Battle of Loos on September 25, 1915.

Soldiers and cadets from the LIR, as well as members of the
Regimental Association were there to remember the often forgotten
tale of bullets, bombs and bravery.

The Lord Mayor of Canterbury Pat Todd, was joined at the
proceedings by London Irish Rifles Regimental Association president
Major General Corran Purdon, president of RAFA Whitstable and
Tankerton Branch, Group Captain Trevor Dole and Commanding Officer
321 City of Canterbury Squadron Air Training Corps Flt.Lt. Emma
Dando.

Following a march past the pub and an inspection of the
soldiers, Rev. Donald Lugg held a service, with music provided by
Whitstable Brass.

Several of those who saw the German plane crash land in
Seasalter where at the ceremony to recall their version of
events.

John Dann, 83, who now lives in Wilmington, was 13-years-old at
the time of the battle.

He was fishing in the dyke with a friend when he saw the plane
dive into the fields.

He said: "It was all a bit of a surprise, and was quite
exciting.

"The soldiers told us to lay on the ground and we heard the
shots.

"I can see it all so clearly, and can even remember that two of
the Germans had blonde hair. They were so arrogant.

"I wasn't scared more intrigued as to what was going on. Little
did I know the significance of what was happening in front of me,
that I was witnessing history unfold.

"It is nice that a permanent reminder is being put together, and
that so many have come out to mark the occasion."

Sisters Brenda Hitches and Sheila Gilham were also at the
commemoration.

The pair who now have four grandchildren each and still live in
Seasalter were 10 and eight years-old when they saw the plane crash
as they cycled along the road.

"The siblings who lived at Waldens at the time didn't realise
what was unravelling before their very eyes.

Mrs Gilham said: "We weren't really aware of the danger, but we
were certainly left shaking once it was all finished.

"It is good that history is being marked and to be able to
recall memories with others. It is important that history is
remembered.

"I can't believe how many people have come along."

Dickie Bird, from the Whitstable Royal British Legion Club,
said: "I never expected so many people to come along to mark this
incredibly important occasion.

"It is nice to have serving soldiers and veterans here, and
recognise a battle which is often forgotten.

"It is right that a lasting memorial is unveiled to mark the
anniversary, and to have so many here to witness it."