26 British Servicewomen Killed in Great Yarmouth Bombing to be Honoured Nationwide
On Sunday 14th May at 2pm, events across the UK will mark the sacrifice of 26 British servicewomen who lost their lives in the Great Yarmouth bombing. From Stornoway in Scotland to Bournemouth in the south, communities will hold Acts of Commemoration to remember these heroes. #WeWillRememberHer
Remembering the Fallen
Paula Rogers, CEO of the Women’s Royal Army Corps Association (WRAC), said: “We must remember the sacrifice made by these brave women, killed while serving their country. Our charity continues to honour both our living and fallen servicewomen, ensuring none are ever forgotten.”
Private Doris Travers, who served near Great Yarmouth, once wrote: “I am 21 today… It is not a very safe area, we are on the coast: nevermind. We must put the bad with the good. My nerves are getting a bit shaky. I should like to tell you a lot, but I can’t. I will be coming home in six weeks’ time.”
Local Services Across the Country
- London: Commemorations at the Bank of England and New Southgate Cemetery will honour Pte Viola Wells (age 23) and two others. The service is led by the local church, which uncovered long-forgotten stories after delays over a war memorial plaque.
- Glasgow: Veterans will pay respects at local cemeteries.
- Leeds: A ceremony for Pte Vera Mann (age 22) will be held at the Veterans Cemetery.
- St Joseph’s Roman Catholic Cemetery: Events will highlight the campaign’s push for greater recognition of women on war memorials worldwide.
Campaign Pushes for Recognition
Retired Brigadier Fiona Gardner, Vice President of WRAC, stressed: “Many servicewomen from the world wars have Commonwealth War Graves but no mention on local war memorials. This has to change. Every community should check their war memorials to honour these women just as they do male soldiers.”
Paula Rogers added: “Too many servicewomen don’t consider themselves veterans, even though they were vital to the war effort. Our campaign aims to give them the recognition they deserve.”
How You Can Help
Visit the We Will Remember Her campaign website to discover where these remarkable women came from. Check your local war memorial—if their names are missing or present, upload photos to the site to help preserve their memory.
