Ypres - by Sam

Learning from Bruce at the picturesque Rampart Cemetery

Lila and David

After the punishing day of travel yesterday, we were given the welcome opportunity to sleep in until 9 o'clock. Bruce then led the way through the cold streets of Belgium to Rampart Cemetery, in which 11 Australian soldiers are buried, and then through to the famous Menin Gate.

Peter recites the Ode at Menin Gate

The 'In Flanders Fields Museum' was next, displaying vivid accounts of the nurses and doctors at the scenes, as well as an exhibit of shell shock and its effects.

Free time around the square was a bonus. 

Many of us succumbed to the Belgian chocolate shops. Bruce even bought 50 Euro's worth of chocolate!

Sanduni, Bill and Sam lay a wreath on our behalf at the ceremony

The highlight of the day was the Last Post ceremony at Menin Gate. We all thought that it was a privilege to be a part of this amazing tradition. We laid wreathes in commemoration and sang the Australian Anthem in front of the crowd.

 

With the Last Post buglers

Many Australians that were present came up to the group afterwards, thanking and telling us that they had only just stopped crying, and blessed the group for their efforts. 

One English lady, named Betty Elizabeth Herschel, was also present at the ceremony. She is a veteran that served from 1939 to 1945 as a part of the Woman's Army in London and Windsor. She was very proud to be present, and with us, that evening. 

After a well deserved Belgian hot chocolate, everyone retired for the day. 

Belgium has definitely shown its good side today!

British WW2 veteran, Betty, poses for a shot with the group

Thanks, Sam