CATHY Jamieson is encouraging local schools and constituents to visit Commonwealth war graves.

She wants them to support an initiative spearheaded by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which seeks to develop and maintain our understanding and memory of the Great War.

The Kilmarnock and Loudoun MP recently visited Commonwealth war graves, including those of Polish soldiers, in Auchinleck cemetery, and believes if more people do so it will help to foster greater understanding of the scale of the war, its impact on local communities and its wider historical significance.

Cathy said: “The Centenary of the outbreak of the First World War is an opportunity for us all to reflect on the tragic enormity of a conflict that cost the lives of millions across the globe. 1.7 million servicemen and women from across the Commonwealth fought and died in the Great War and found their final resting place in the UK, many of them far away from home.

“Visiting Commonwealth graves and reading the names of those who died can lend immediacy and a sense of personal relevance to an event that is fast receding into history. That is why I would strongly encourage local schools and, indeed, people across the area, to visit these graves. By revisiting the past in this way we can help to maintain our collective memory and secure its legacy for future generations.” Deirdre Mills, CWGC’s Director of UK Area states that: “The Centenary is an opportune time for us to re-engage and connect with local communities and young people, and explain how the people who are buried in our graves got to be there, who they were, and where they were from. “More than 300,000 Commonwealth servicemen and women are commemorated in the UK. Many died in military hospitals whilst being treated for their wounds or fell victim to the flu pandemic as the conflict drew to a close.

“Their graves reflect both the local impact of the war but also its wider historical significance.” The CWGC maintains the graves of the 1.7 million Commonwealth servicemen and women who died during the two world wars.

It also provides teachers and youth workers with a comprehensive range of educational resources and support materials so that future generations remain engaged in the work and continue to remember those who died in the two world wars.