“Nine airmen rest here.” That’s the first thing to know about Lezennes Communal Cemetery. This cemetery is located a few kilometers from Lille. It is a place of respect and remembrance.
Lezennes Communal Cemetery holds a poignant history. It’s a reminder of the sacrifices made during the Second World War. Specifically, near the western corner of the cemetery, you’ll find the graves of those nine airmen. Five of them came from the United Kingdom. Four came from Australia.
Among those laid to rest here is Pilot Officer William Eldred Felstead. He was just 22 years old. Felstead served in the Royal Australian Air Force. He was the son of Sydney Gordon Felstead and Blanch May Catchlove Felstead. They lived in New South Wales, Australia. Before enlisting in December 1941, he worked as a clerk. William trained as a pilot. He trained in Australia, Canada, and England. This was part of the Empire Air Training Scheme.
On May 10, 1944, Felstead was piloting a Lancaster bomber. Its radio call sign was PO-G. The plane exploded and crashed. This happened during operations over Lille, France. Felstead and the six other crew members died.
Also remembered here is the crew of a Lancaster bomber of 467 Squadron RAAF. The pilot Squadron Leader Donald Philip Smeed Smith survived. He made his way across France and Switzerland. Several months later, he returned to England.
Lezennes Communal Cemetery serves as a peaceful memorial. It connects us to a time of conflict. It reminds us of the individuals who gave their lives. Standing here, you can reflect on their bravery. Consider their stories and the impact of war.
As we leave Lezennes Communal Cemetery, remember the airmen. Remember their sacrifice and the young lives cut short. Let this place be a reminder of the cost of freedom. It also shows the importance of lasting peace.