As well as the big national and international events in Portsmouth and Normandy, a small ceremony also took place in Buriton on 6th June to mark one of the community’s connections with D-Day.
Following its research into D-Day “through local eyes”, Buriton’s Village Association had arranged to provide a commemorative plaque alongside the Field Maple tree which had been planted in one of the areas where Canadian troops had camped 80 years before.
As well as installing the plaque, dedicated to the Canadian servicemen, the event heard Keith Passingham give a wonderful account of his memories of these times with other long-standing villagers arranged by Mary Owens contributing, too.
Doug Jones, Chair of the BVA and Coordinator of the Heritage Bank, summarised some of the findings of the local research and paid tribute to others in the parish who had played important roles in the conflict. He hoped that the young tree would provide a lasting mark, well into the future.
Reporters from the Petersfield Post and Shine Radio conducted interviews and made recordings which can be heard here: https://shineradio.uk/2024/06/d-day-80-buriton-village-remembers/
If anyone has any information about the Canadian troops that camped around Buriton (particularly anything which might help identify their Regiment or Units) please email us via: info@buriton.org.uk
