PBI and seadog make the point that not much publicity is given to the finding, identification and interment of remains.
I do think the CWGC are not pro active enough to ensure they are not criticised as doing only a perfunctory minimum when remains are discovered.
sarah h makes the point that at Flat Iron Copse, along with the remains were
QUOTE
some nice buttons and fabric pieces
Surely, with the expertise on here it would be possible for the CWGC to privately contact the Moderators saying x sets of remains have been found at y location. That could then be posted without giving the precise location away so that potential units and casualties might be identified, especially if conservators were able to privately provide information as to unit, personal items etc. There must be a number of pals who have minutely researched various units or battlefields who could speedily eliminate or include potential candidates for identifying any remains, whatever their nationality.
I realise that to publicly give the precise locations could cause the site to be robbed, but surely we could find a way to work in harmony to ensure the best possible skills are used to try and identify him, maybe if only his unit alone. If sarah h found buttons and fabric that in itself could provide clues as to what type of unit he may have been part of, then a dating might be possible and perhaps his Name would be known again.
I do hope people who find "things" realise that they may have the clue for the identification of any remains which may either have already been found but not identified, or that may subsequently be found near that spot. After all, they were once part of a mans uniform, not the contents of a regimental tailors junk box!
Perhaps as a start, the CWGC could be invited to have access to this site for early posting of any discoveries so that the acknowledged experts here could then be included in researching identities. The subsequent interment details could then be posted for a wider audience, so they are not buried with only a few in attendance.
It's so blindingly obvious that I do hope something of this nature already exists, but i see little evidence of this at present.
I don't like to criticise the CWGC but they are their own worst enemy by appearing not to give sufficiently early warning of interments.
Straying slightly I am aware that the remains of some of the crew of a Lancaster lost in 1945 have recently been located with recovery scheduled for the spring. Relatives from Canada, Australia and America need to be contacted so they can plan travel arrangements. The British Embassy have been contacted as has the Squadron Association to ensure these men are laid to rest with their crew mates with family and friends in attendance.
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