An Isle of Wight man who has been sharing his passion for world war history and inspiring people with talks has received an award from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).
Gary Newman was recognised for his work and for going above and beyond as a volunteer for the CWGC.
He was recently given the prestigious Spotlight award along with a letter from the CWGC’s Director General, Claire Horton, congratulating him and thanking him for his work.
Gary has said:
“I served in the Royal Navy in the medical branch for more than 35 years. At one time involved in preparing the fallen for their final return home from Afghanistan, which when I left, helped inspire me to volunteer with Commission, along with having quite a few relatives (from the Island) having fallen in WWI & WWII, including my paternal grandfather who is commemorated on the Thiepval Memorial in France.”
The CWGC’s Spotlight Awards are designed to shine a light on and celebrate the exceptional work of volunteers, individually or in teams who have gone over and beyond what is expected from them.
Gary is 1 of 4 volunteers to help across 12 sites, with 214 casualties on the Isle of Wight. He joined as a volunteer in 2021 and has 8 talks booked for this year.
He will be involved in this year’s War Graves Week – titled Ordinary People, Extraordinary Times – which takes place from 21st-28th May. This will be a chance for residents to explore the war graves on their doorstep, with planned talks and tours.
Gary adds:
“I very much enjoy my work for the Commission and now the weather is improving, I am looking forward to getting out on the ground and visiting the lads and lasses in my care.”
What a truly and well deserved accolade.
You are a true hero, for looking after the fallen heroes.
I have visited some of the graves at sandown (Broadway) cemetery.
What an amazing job that you guys do.
Nothing but Respect to you and your commerades.
Well done fella.
Well deserved.