The memorial to 2nd Division is reproduced in smaller size in the Dean’s Park beside York Minster. Here, a Memorial Service is held each July, organised by the Kohima Educational Trust.
After the laying of wreaths, Kohima veterans and their families would return to Imphal Barracks for lunch and then across the barracks to visit the Kohima Museum. As the years passed, fewer & fewer veterans were with us, but attendance by those who remember them has remained strong. In 2024, there was a record attendance of 330 people at the Memorial Service for the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Kohima.
Youtube video of Kohima veterans honoured at Buckingham Palace.
The lady behind the flag is Countess Mountbatten.
To her right is Raymond Street of the Royal West Kents.
The flag was captured by the Japanese in Singapore.
MY DAD CRIED ON REMEMBRANCE
SUNDAY
Robert Street
Kohima Museum Trustee. Written in memory of his father Private Raymond Street, 4 Queen’s Own Royal West Kent Regiment.
He didn’t take long to prepare
A cup of tea, the TV, sat in his favourite chair
At 11, he stood to attention, straight and erect
It was his way of showing them respect
My Dad cried on Remembrance Sunday
Were they tears of joy; no
Tears of regret; maybe so
Tears of gratitude for he made it home
Tears of sorrow for those left buried alone
My Dad cried on Remembrance Sunday
It doesn’t take long to prepare
A cup of tea, the TV, sat in my favourite chair
At 11, I stand to attention, straight and erect
It’s my way of showing him respect
It’s my turn to cry on Remembrance Sunday
Are they tears of joy; no
Tears of regret; maybe so
Tears of gratitude for he made it home
Tears of sorrow for I now watch alone
It’s my turn to cry on Remembrance Sunday
From “Soldier Poets of the 2nd British Infantry Division” by Bob Cook & Robin McDermott.
Bill Crabb, 1919 – 2009,
2nd Manchester Regiment
- Memories of a Forgotten War: The First Look by Utpal Borpujari. Short video that includes recordings of Kohima veterans.