Service of Remembrance for soldiers of Muslim faith
A solemn ceremony in memory of the Muslim soldiers who fell fighting under the banner of the Allied Army during the Second World War was held on June 15 at the Trenno War Cemetery in Milan. The initiative, organized by Marco Baratto, member of the Royal British Legion – National Memorial Arboretum Branch, saw the participation of diplomatic and religious authorities, as well as representatives of the Islamic communities present in Italy.
Among the most significant presences, that of the Consul of the Kingdom of Morocco, who with his participation wanted to underline the deep bond between his country and the values of freedom, sacrifice and shared memory. He was joined by numerous representatives of the Albanian Muslim community, witnesses of the gratitude and respect that unites different generations in the memory of those who gave their lives for the liberation of Europe from the yoke of Nazi-fascism.
During the ceremony, Muslim soldiers from various territories of the former British Empire – from the Maghreb to South Asia – were remembered. Although often far from European logic and events, they chose (or were called) to fight for the cause of freedom and justice. Their sacrifice, too often forgotten in history books, has today been reaffirmed as an essential part of European collective memory.
On behalf of the Royal British Legion – National Memorial Arboretum Branch, Marco Baratto said:
"This moment of recollection is a tangible sign of our commitment to an inclusive historical memory, which recognizes the fundamental contribution of all peoples and religions who fought for freedom. Remembering the fallen Muslims also means fighting every form of oblivion, stereotype or discrimination, rediscovering the role of minorities in building our peace."
The most touching moment of the commemoration was undoubtedly the prayer led by Imam Youssef Zahir, who raised words of peace and mercy in Arabic, invoking eternal rest for the souls of the deceased and harmonious coexistence between peoples. The Imam underlined the importance of interreligious dialogue and mutual respect as the foundation for building a more just Europe, aware of its multicultural past.
"In the memory of our fallen brothers" - said Imam Zahir - "we find the inspiration for a society that knows how to take on the pain and value of every single human life. Their sacrifice is a bridge between peoples, faiths and nations."
The Trenno War Cemetery was chosen as the symbolic place for this commemoration precisely because of the high historical and moral value it represents. Today's event is part of a broader path of valorisation of shared memory, promoted by the Royal British Legion through Marco Baratto
The ceremony ended with a moment of silence and reflection
With this event, Milan wanted to pay homage not only to the fallen, but also to the values of solidarity, respect and unity that must continue to guide our present and our future.
By Branch Member Marco Baratto - June 2025
Remembrance Sunday at the NMA
On Sunday 10th November 2024, the NMA hosted a national service of Remembrance.
Our Chairman, Tony Matthews MBE, delivered the Kohima Epitaph on behalf of the NMA Branch of the Royal British Legion.
Tony received his MBE as part of the King's Birthday Honours this year and the award was presented by HRH The Princess Royal at Windsor a few days prior to Remembrance. This was one of Tony's first public engagements "properly dressed"!
By Darren Cockcroft - November 2024
UK & Commonwealth Service of Remembrance - Lidzbark Warmiński, Poland
On Tuesday 5th November a service of Remembrance was held to remember all those of the Commonwealth of Nations who gave their lives at sea, on land and in the air in two world wars. We also remembered the brave people of the Polish Armed Forces who fought and died here on their soil and abroad alongside their comrades from the Commonwealth.
By Branch Member Trev Hill
80th Anniversary of the Breaking of the Gothic Line at Coriano Ridge
Branch Member Marco Baratto has created this video of the 80th Anniversary celebrations and commemoration of the Breaking of the Gothic Line at Coriano Ridge, Italy, in September 1944.
After a paralyzing bombardment from 700 artillery pieces and bombers, the Canadian 5th Armoured Division and the British 1st Armoured Division launched their attack on the night of 12 September. The Coriano positions were finally taken on 14 September. Once again, the way was open to Rimini.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGhjyI1NT7I&t=1s
By Branch Member Marco Baratto - September 2024
The Pyrenees Escape
"In September 2024 I completed the Pyrenees Escape, following in the footsteps of Flt Sgt "Chalky" White. (Nigel Cairns)
Chalky was a Spitfire pilot with the RNZAF who was shot down over northern Normandy. Chalky escaped by crossing France from North to South, over the Pyrenees to the British Consulate in Barcelona, finally being repatriated from Gibraltar. You can read more about Chalky and his remarkable journey in this very thorough article - The breathtaking story of a war escape from Occupied France in WW2 (trekpyrenees.com)
Nigel Cairns is a proud Member of the NMA Branch, completing this arduous act of Remembrance, laying a Poppy cross at the border between France and "neutral" Spain. Nigel is raising funds for the Army Benevolent Fund, who the RBL work alongside to support our Armed Forces community. If you would like to donate in memory of Chalky, and in support of Nigel's achievement, please follow the link -
Our fundraising from this challenge is now closed.
I raised £4,789.
Team Mad Mules topped this up to £7,379.
Thank you for sponsoring me, the Team and donating to the Army Benevolent Fund who are there for soldiers for life.
By Branch Member Nigel Cairns and Darren Cockcroft - October 2024
"On Friday the 19th in Voghera, a few kilometres from Pavia, in the presence of sixty pupils from the town's schools, Member of Parliament Alessandro Cattaneo, the Mayor of Voghera, the Chaplain of the Church of England in Milan, and a representative of the British Army, I organised the commemoration of the British soldiers of the First World War. School children sang the English anthem and made plastic poppy wreaths".
By Branch Member Marco Baratto - January 2024
"I got there early and filed in smoothly. It was a friendly atmosphere with tri-service veterans chatting with strangers and friends alike.
The Riders Branch were very hospitable!
I hear there were 10,000 of us on parade.
It was a wonderful atmosphere.
I am glad and proud to have been part of something so special.
We must continue these ceremonies of Remembrance to make us prevent wars and be prepared to defend ourselves if necessary."
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.
By Branch Member Nigel Cairns - November 2023
"Here are photos of the Cremona Commemoration at the Municipal Cemetery in the British soldiers' section.
Together with the Military Attaché at the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Italy".
By Branch Member Marco Baratto - November 2023
