AN EVESHAM teenager has returned from Belgium after attending a special commemoration event marking 100 years since the First World War Battle of Passchendaele.
Faith Williamson, an 18-year-old National Citizen Service (NCS) graduate, was invited by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DDCMS) to attend the UK ceremony of remembrance in Belgium, on Sunday, July 30 and Monday, July 31.
Joining up with almost 100 other NCS graduates, Faith ensured the event, which saw more than 4,000 people from across the UK follow their ancestors’ journey to the Western Front, ran smoothly from assisting with transport to guiding people around.
There were an estimated 250,000 British and Commonwealth casualties in the Battle of Passchendaele.
NCS allows young people to meet new friends and make a difference in the community through volunteering and social activities.
Faith said: “I’m so grateful for the incredible opportunity that was offered to me by NCS and DCMS, as it really was something that only happens once in a lifetime.
“I wanted to attend because it was important to me to be able to pay my respects to those who bravely fought so that we can lead the lives we do today. I felt immense pride representing my country at the event.
“My favourite moments were meeting and talking to Prince Charles and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate, as it was a true privilege that not many people get.
“I think it was important to represent young people at the event because we’re the ones looking to change the future so that history doesn’t repeat itself.”
Michael Lynas, CEO of NCS Trust, said: “One hundred NCS graduates were honoured to serve our country at the Centenary of Passchendaele events.
“I’m proud of how these young people represented their generation as they met descendants, the Royal Family and the Prime Minister.
“I know these young graduates will help ensure that the sacrifice of the fallen will be remembered for generations to come.”
Visit www.ncsyes.co.uk for more information on the NCS.
