Commonwealth War Graves Commission

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Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) is an intergovernmental organization responsible for the care and maintenance of World War I and World War II graves and memorials in Europe, North Africa, and other parts of the world. The Commission was established in 1917 and is responsible for commemorating the Commonwealth's war dead. The CWGC also maintains cemeteries and memorials in many countries, including France, Belgium, and Italy.

History

The CWGC was established in 1917, during World War I, as the Imperial War Graves Commission (IWGC). The Commission was set up to provide a dignified and lasting tribute to the Imperial war dead. The IWGC was responsible for the design and construction of cemeteries and memorials in France, Belgium, and other countries. After World War II, the Commission's remit was expanded to include the graves and memorials of the Second World War. In 1960, the IWGC was reconstituted as the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, with a broader membership and a wider remit.

The Commission's early history was marked by controversy over the Sir Fabian Ware's proposal to create a uniform system of commemoration. The Sir Edward Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll designed the Cross of Sacrifice, which has become a symbol of the CWGC. The Commission's work was also influenced by the Poperinge and Ypres Menin Gate memorials.

Organisation and governance

The CWGC is governed by a board of commissioners, who are appointed by the UK government and the governments of other Commonwealth countries. The Commission is headquartered in Maidenhead, Berkshire, United Kingdom, and has a network of regional offices around the world. The CWGC employs a team of historians, architects, and gardeners to maintain its cemeteries and memorials.

The Commission is supported by a number of voluntary organisations, including the British Legion and the Royal British Legion. The CWGC also works closely with local authorities and communities to ensure that its cemeteries and memorials are properly maintained and respected.

Operations and responsibilities

The CWGC is responsible for the care and maintenance of over 23,000 cemeteries and memorials in more than 70 countries. The Commission's operations include:

* Maintaining and restoring cemeteries and memorials * Recording and researching the histories of the war dead * Providing information and support to families and visitors * Organizing commemoration and ceremonies

The CWGC works closely with local authorities, communities, and voluntary organisations to ensure that its cemeteries and memorials are properly maintained and respected.

Notable cemeteries and memorials

The CWGC maintains many notable cemeteries and memorials, including:

* Tyne Cot Cemetery in Belgium, the largest Commonwealth cemetery in the world * Villers-Bretonneux Australian National Memorial in France * Menin Gate Memorial in Belgium * Runnymede Memorial in England * Singapore Memorial in Singapore

These cemeteries and memorials are an important part of the Commonwealth's cultural heritage and are visited by millions of people each year.

Commemoration and ceremonies

The CWGC organizes commemoration and ceremonies throughout the year to honor the war dead. These events include:

* Remembrance Day services * Poppy ceremonies * Wreath-laying ceremonies * Visits by dignitaries and veterans

The CWGC also provides information and support to families and visitors who wish to pay their respects at its cemeteries and memorials.

Funding and finance

The CWGC is funded by the governments of Commonwealth countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The Commission's annual budget is around £70 million, which is used to fund its operations, maintenance, and commemoration activities.

The CWGC is a registered charity and is accountable to its funders and the public. The Commission's financial statements are audited annually and are available on its website. Category: Commonwealth War Graves Commission