A group of teenagers from Germany have arrived in Staffordshire for their annual summer camp aimed at promoting friendship, understanding and remembrance.
The 13 young people, aged 16 to 18, from across Germany, met up with 14 teenagers from Staffordshire for the twelve-day exchange.
The young people have been spending time working at the Commonwealth War Graves and the German Cemetery on Cannock Chase. They've also met with local veterans and will take part in educational sessions exploring the importance of peace, remembrance and reconciliation.
Also in the itinerary are outdoor adventure and team-building activities, helping to strengthen relationships and encourage cultural exchange. Visits to the National Memorial Arboretum, Coventry Cathedral and the Imperial War Museum North have also been arranged.
The Summer War Graves Camp is a partnership between Staffordshire County Council and the Volksbund (German War Graves Commission) and has been running since 1962.
Paul Williams, Chairman of Staffordshire County Council, welcomed the young people and said:
“This is a long running friendship between the young people of Germany and Staffordshire and it’s a real privilege to welcome and meet them.
“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.
“We live in quite uncertain times with wars and conflict in many parts of the world. By coming together to remember the past and learn from one another, these young people are helping to create a brighter future built on respect, cooperation and reconciliation. I do hope they enjoy their time in Staffordshire.”
Nick Lakin, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“It’s wonderful to bring young people from Staffordshire and Germany together to learn about the sacrifices made during past conflicts and reflect on the importance of peace today.
“The exchange gives them a great opportunity to make new friends, share experiences and learn from one another. Alongside this, they’ll be able to enjoy some of Staffordshire’s outstanding attractions, including the National Memorial Arboretum, making this a truly memorable experience.”
Phil Pusey, Chief Executive of Staffordshire Consortium of Voluntary Youth Services (SCVYS), said:
"SCVYS has been delivering this profound experience since 2014, and each year reveals multiple stories of personal and social development across camp participants as they engage in the programme, build lasting cross-cultural friendships and engage in high-profile civic events.
“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 concludes with Peace and Reconciliation ceremonies at the Commonwealth and German Cemeteries on Tuesday 4 August, followed by a civic reception at County Buildings in Stafford.
