There is a move afoot, to record for posterity, the contributions made by Antigua
and Barbuda nationals in World War 1 and World War 2.
Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Ex-Service Men Association, Philmore
Mullin disclosed an address at the formal launch of the 2023 Poppy Appeal at
Government House on Wednesday.
He said, there is a story to be told and it is important that this is done to honour the
memories of those who left these shores to take part in the wars. “Our annual
poppy appeal serves two main functions; firstly, raise funds to support the widows
of the men who took part in the war and who are still alive today, and, secondly, it
provides a forum through which we can keep their memories alive. Some went off
and never returned and their sacrifices ought to be acknowledged and remembered
by us all,” he remarked.
He disclosed that the organization has written to the UK War Museum seeking
information of the nationals who went off for the war and that it has been told that
the records are being compiled and will soon be sent to the British Archives who
the association must then contact.
He further disclosed that the sacrifices went beyond fighting in the war as those
who remained behind also made worthwhile contributions as they sent money,
clothing, and other items to the men and women who traveled to the UK.
Funds raised from the Poppy Appeal 2023 go towards four widows – one of whom
is in Barbuda and the other three live in Antigua. The Barbuda widow of an ex-
serviceman is said to be age 102. Former members of the association who may
have fallen on hard times are also assisted by the funds raised.
