Old soldiers fly in for gathering

World War Two veterans from across the globe will be in the West Midlands this weekend for the dedication of a special memorial in their honour.

Members of the Chindits Old Comrades Association, whose national headquarters is based in Wolverhampton, will gather at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, near Lichfield on Sunday.

A dedication service to the Chindit Obelisk will take place in remembrance of their servicemen who fought in Burma.

Capt Baden Wilson, secretary and welfare officer of the association, which is based at the TA Centre in Fallings Park, said it would be an emotional service for all involved.

He said: "The Chindits came from all over the world. As well as the British, it included Gurkha, West African, Burmese, Hong Kong and Chinese servicemen.

"This weekend we will have people coming from as far afield as Cyprus and Canada for the event."

Among those attending will be former Chindit soldier Major Neville Hogan MBE, aged 84, from Hemel Hempstead, chairman of the association.

The Chindits were the largest of the allied Special Forces of the Second World War and were formed and lead by Major General Orde Wingate DSO. They operated deep behind enemy lines in North Burma in the War against Japan.

For many months they lived in and fought the enemy in the jungles of Japanese occupied Burma, totally relying on airdrops for their supplies.

The Chindits Old Comrades Association was formed in 1948 and celebrates its 60th anniversary next year. The unveiling of the memorial will take place at 11.30am.

They will also be holding their 59th AGM and Families Annual Dinner and Dance at the Quality Hotel in Bentley, Walsall.

For details on both events call The Chindit National Headquarters at Wolseley House in Fallings Park on 01902 731841.

By Becky Sharpe