“In loving memory of my son Capitaine Michel” says one headstone. This brings us to Lille Southern Cemetery. It is also the site of the Monument funéraire allemand. This is a place where echoes of conflict and sacrifice linger. It is a testament to the enduring impact of war.
Lille Southern Cemetery holds a complex history. It was used by the Germans during the First World War. Later, it was used by the 39th Stationary Hospital and the 1st Australian Casualty Clearing Station after the Armistice. The cemetery also saw use during the Second World War. No.10 Casualty Clearing Station used the cemetery in May 1940.
The Monument funéraire allemand is part of a larger site. It contains over 600 casualties from 1914-18. It also holds nearly 300 from 1939-45. A special memorial honors one soldier from the First World War. He is known to be buried among the unidentified. Nearly 40 casualties from the Second World War remain unidentified.
Among the many buried here is Frederic Joscelyn Colless. He was a Sergeant in the 32nd Bn. Australian Infantry. He died at Kriegslz Part 1, Lille. He succumbed to sepsis caused by grenade splinters. The Germans buried him here.
Also resting here is Captain Michael Alfred Raymond Trotobas. He was mentioned in dispatches. He served with the Manchester Regiment and the French Resistance. Trotobas was killed in action in November 1943. He fought with the French Resistance. His headstone bears the inscription honoring “Capitaine Michel”.
Consider William Francis Bayliss of the Norfolk Regiment. He died on November 14 1918 aged 28. His headstone reads: “Sadly Missed Fondly Remembered From Wife Daughter And Mother.” These personal touches speak volumes. They tell of love and loss amidst the harsh realities of war.
Note the inscription on Walter Chester’s headstone. He was a Sergeant in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. He died on October 5 1942 aged 28. It says: “Life Is Eternal; And Love Is Immortal; And Death Is Only A Horizon.” Such words offer solace. They offer hope amidst the somber surroundings.
Lille Southern Cemetery also holds the remains of Lieutenant Arthur George Murray-Smith. He served in the 2nd Life Guards. He died on November 2 1914 aged 28. His headstone declares: “It Is Well With You Among The Chosen Few Among The Very Brave The Very True.”
The Monument funéraire allemand serves as a reminder. It highlights the human cost of war. It also stands as a symbol of remembrance. It urges us to reflect on the sacrifices made. It encourages us to strive for a future defined by peace. As you leave this place take a moment. Remember the names etched in stone. Carry their stories in your heart.