Big Lottery funding for veterans who wish to return to their battlegrounds is still available.

War Graves

Veterans wishing to make a trip will be covered by £1800 per person of Big Lottery funding. The funding runs out on 31 January 2012, with the final trip to Java, Ambon and Haruku prisoner of war camps taking place in March 2012. This will be the last chance for many to make the journey and certainly the last chance with the aid of Big Lottery funding.

Other vets tours are also on offer to Northern Europe, Italy, Malta and Egypt. (subject to Big Lottery terms and conditions and lesser sums)

Below is a  letter from the chairman and treasurer of the Java Far East Prisoners of War Club which explains more about how veterans  can register for lottery funding and make the trip. Note; this must be done before 31 January 2012……..

I wonder if I may prevail upon you to publish this letter ?

In March 2012, I am taking a group of Far East POW’s/wives/widows/siblings on a poignant return visit to the locations where they were incarcerated-namely: JAVA, AMBON & HARUKU.

Sadly out of a group of 23 the actual number of veterans in the group has dwindled to four.

Bearing in mind the average age of the veterans is 90 plus it’s hardly surprising.  Regrettably failing health etc. is taking its toll.

This for sure will be the last such visit and I want to make absolutely sure every Far East veteran out there is aware of this tour.  Subject to Big Lottery terms and conditions, the trip will be covered by lottery funding-to the value of £1800.00. An equal amount will be given for a relative and a carer to accompany. This is absolutely the last chance as lottery funding ends on 31st January, 2012.

The visit to honour and remember what was sacrificed for us is being organised by: John Babbage [email protected] tel. 01582 737 172 and includes many members of The Java Far Eastern Prisoner of War Club, which is the largest and only remaining nationwide Club for these veterans and their widows.

The itinerary and bookings are currently being finalized. If you would like to join this trip or learn more about The Java FEPOW Club visit the Club’s web site www.thejavafepowclub42.org

Many  thanks,

Lesley Clark  

Chairman and Treasurer