HEROES of the Second World War have finally been etched into history and are now waiting to take their pride of place at Ipswich's cenotaph.The names of 620 serviceman from the town who gave their lives for the county have been engraved on to the six bronze plaques more than 58 years after the war ended.
HEROES of the Second World War have finally been etched into history and are now waiting to take their pride of place at Ipswich's cenotaph.
The names of 620 serviceman from the town who gave their lives for the county have been engraved on to the six bronze plaques more than 58 years after the war ended.
The British Legion, backed by the Evening Star, has been campaigning for an extension and repairs to the war memorial in Christchurch Park for more than five years. So far more than £85,000 has been raised to extend the wall to display the plaques above those of the First World War.
Peter Thompson, secretary of the British Legion, said: "All these people gave the ultimate sacrifice for their county and should have been remembered at the time. We must look after their memory and respect them like they do for their fallen servicemen in other countries.
"The people that want to see their comrades remembered now all in their 80s and may not have much longer to live. We are hoping the council will add the plaques to the war memorial in time for Remembrance Sunday in November."
"Every regiment that lost men have given to the fund. They are beginning to ask questions about when the extension will be built."
Mr Thompson claims the delay is caused by the borough council being lax in applying for planning permission.
He said the council knew what they were doing and should have been preparing for the plaques months ago.
A council spokesman said: "The council has supported the Royal British Legion's project from the start and pledged £25,000 to the campaign. It is our understanding that the project has changed but we are working with the Legion to ensure that the latest plans happen as soon as possible."
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