German teenagers arrive in Staffordshire and tend to war graves

A group of 13 teenagers from Germany have arrived in Staffordshire for an annual exchange aimed at promoting friendship, understanding, and remembrance.

The young people, aged 16 to 18, are participating in a twelve-day programme alongside 14 teenagers from Staffordshire.

Their itinerary includes tending to war graves at Cannock Chase's Commonwealth War Graves and the German Cemetery, meeting local veterans, and participating in educational sessions that emphasise peace, remembrance, and reconciliation.

In addition to these activities, they will engage in outdoor adventures and team-building exercises aimed at strengthening cross-cultural relationships.

Visits to the National Memorial Arboretum, Coventry Cathedral, and the Imperial War Museum North have also been organised.

The Summer War Graves Camp represents a collaboration between Staffordshire County Council and the Volksbund, the German War Graves Commission, and has been running since 1962.

Paul Williams, Chairman of Staffordshire County Council, addressed the significance of the initiative:

“The project is about much more than learning about history. It is about building friendships, understanding different cultures and recognising the importance of peace in our communities and across the world.”

Phil Pusey, Chief Executive of Staffordshire Consortium of Voluntary Youth Services, shared his hopes for the camp's impact:

“Everyone who connects with the camp goes away moved and changed by the experience, and we hope this year will bring similar outcomes of increased self-confidence as well as knowledge and awareness of these important issues for all those involved.”

The exchange will conclude with Peace and Reconciliation ceremonies at the Commonwealth and German Cemeteries on Tuesday, 4th August, followed by a civic reception at County Buildings in Stafford.

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