On this special Remembrance Sunday which marks 100 years since the First World war, the village of Oadby in Leicestershire, like many others across the country, will be remembering all those who gave their lives in that devastating conflict one hundred years ago.
The village of Oadby was where I was born and spent most of my early years, it was then a close village, everyone knew everyone and most, if not all of my friends, and neighbors had relatives who were lost in this conflict we are remembering today.
My family, on my mother’s side, all fought in the First World War; The Johnstone family was one of the few Oadby families where all five brothers went to fight, and only three returned. Today on this even more special remembrance day I pay a small but to me, a significant tribute to those brave young men.
There were many other families in the village whose sons and husbands went to fight and never returned. To my Great Uncle Herbert Johnstone, and Grandfather James Hall Johnstone who did not return and to thousands like them, I say Thank you.
To the thousands that did return; but only to lives burdened by injuries and tormented memories that would last a lifetime, I am also Grateful, yes Grateful, for because of you and the immense sacrifice you all made, I can live the life I live now, and do the things I love to do, Thank you and Bless you, all.
John Warner Author/Creator The Tales of Padistan Bear
John Warner Author 