About the Commonwealth War Graves Commission
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission ensures that 1.7 million men and women of the Commonwealth forces who died in the two world wars will never be forgotten. We care for cemeteries and memorials at 23,000 locations, in more than 150 countries. Our values and aims, laid out in 1917, are as relevant now as they were 100 years ago.
The CWGC Plymouth Naval Memorial, unveiled in July 1924, commemorates more than 7,200 sailors of the First World War who sailed from the naval base of Devonport. The Second World War Extension was unveiled in May 1954 and bears the names of nearly 16,000 service personnel who were lost or buried at sea.
The impact of the Third Battle of Ypres was felt in communities across Britain and the Empire. Many families mourned the loss of their husbands, fathers and sons. For one Australian family, the fighting would prove especially traumatic, as three brothers lost their lives within hours of each other.
Wednesday 20 September marks 100 years since the Battle of Menin Road Ridge began in 1917. Here are 8 facts about the battle.
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR ACTIVITIEs
Horticulture & Works
From the start, architects worked closely with the Commission's horticultural staff to produce designs suited to the variety of climates and terrains of our cemeteries.
Community Engagement
Our Community Teams work with schools and local groups to raise the profile of the Commission’s work using innovative ways to involve the public.
Our Apps
The Commission has created helpful resources for all ages such as mobile apps for if you are planning a trip to one of our cemeteries or memorials.
Explore History & Archives
The World Wars
The First and Second World Wars were global conflicts which caused the deaths of millions of men and women and shaped our world.
CWGC Archive
For practical purposes, the archive collection has been split into two sections: The Commission Archive and The Casualty Archive.
SUPPORT US
You can show your support for our work by joining the Commonwealth War Graves Foundation (CWGF) Supporters scheme or by making a donation.
DONATE
For a donation of £30 a year you can join our global network. Your money goes straight to funding our education and community engagement programmes.
CWGF supporters
The Supporters scheme lets people interested in our work show their support, keep in touch with what we are doing and help us tell the stories of those we commemorate.