Over a period of four and a half years, Wootton Bassett saw the repatriation of 355 servicemen and women who lost their lives in the service of this country. 355 servicemen and women whose final journey from RAF Lyneham passed through our High Street.

While the community stood in silent respect, so the media images inspired people to write, sharing their own thoughts and feelings. Our memorial books are filled with touching messages, poetry and photographs from all those who paid their respects both near and afar.

These archives were created in remembrance to the fallen, and as a testimony to the heartfelt compassion shown by the people of Wootton Bassett between 2007 and 2011.

We hope this collection pays tribute to and honours all those who gave their lives. We owe each one an enormous debt of gratitude.

A special thank you to the late Ken Scott, Honorary President of the Royal Wootton Bassett Royal British Legion and a veteran of D-Day, who took it upon himself to preserve the many cards and memorabilia left at the war memorial after each repatriation. Read Ken’s story here.        

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

For the Fallen - Robert Laurence Binyon

(1869-1943)