Donations Sought for British Cemetery Ceremony

This year is the 76th anniversary of the sinking of H.M.T. Bedfordshire off the North Carolina coast. Representatives from the British Royal Navy and Royal Canadian Navy will be in attendance, as well as members of the United States Coast Guard, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and seniors from Ocracoke School.

The Ocracoke ceremony can trace its ties to island families back to May 1942. The British Cemetery site has meant a lot to the people of Ocracoke, and has also become an important stop for visitors. As one stands at these gravesites, you begin to understand the kindness and respect people have shown for the men who died so far from home. The Ocracoke community has continued to help care for the gravesites, memorial, and to honor these British sailors.

The money raised each year goes to landscaping the garden area, maintaining the original crosses and memorial, and providing food for the reception. The physical labor at the cemetery site is lovingly done by local and visiting volunteers, and by a local representative through the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The reception is catered by a local restaurant, and the set-up, serving, and clean-up is done by local volunteers from the community.

Families, businesses, and visitors are encouraged to make a donation to help fund this event. It is requested any donations made by check include a note designating the donation go to the British Cemetery fund. Donations can be mailed to the Ocracoke Civic and Business Association, preferably by April 30, 2018.

Mail to: OCBA, Box 456, Ocracoke, NC 27960

We are also seeking volunteers for the reception. Please call Crystal Canterbury at 252-588-2245 or send an email to crystalcurrentlee@yahoo.com for specific information and any questions.