Armed Forces Day 2024: Writing the War workshop hosted by Healthy Arts

Julie McKiernan's engaging talk and subsequent creative writing session offered participants a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who fought in the war. Attendees were encouraged to create written pieces inspired by historical documents, with some choosing to write from a soldier's perspective, influenced by the diary entries they had heard, while others crafted war poems.

One notable diary entry from March 1915 recounted how a soldier named William Walls signed up to fight for King and his country, reflecting the sense of duty felt by many at the time. His detailed accounts painted a vivid picture of his experiences, from receiving his railway tickets and travelling to the Depot at Winchester, to the camaraderie shared with fellow soldiers and the grim realities of the battlefield.

Later entries in Walls's diary revealed the horrors of the trenches. Despite the enemy being Germany, Walls’s humanity shone through as he described helping a wounded German soldier. This act of compassion highlighted the shared human experience amidst the brutality of war.

The creative writing workshop allowed participants to engage deeply with these historical narratives. Inspired by wartime advertisements, I crafted a poem responding to the condescending tone of a Rowntree advert claiming their Elect Cocoa could "make a biscuit into a meal." My sarcastic poem gave voice to a woman working on the home front, mirroring the frustrations felt by many.

Julie’s workshop emphasised the importance of understanding and honouring the experiences of those who served. Through writing and reflection, participants could place themselves in the shoes of individuals from the past, appreciating the difficult choices and sacrifices made in service of the King and country.

Armed Forces Day is a poignant reminder of the ongoing sacrifices made by those who serve. While it is celebrated once a year, the appreciation and respect for our Armed Forces should be a year-round commitment.

Events like the "Writing the War" workshop help keep these stories and sacrifices alive in our collective memory.

By engaging with the past through writing and historical exploration, we can better appreciate the sacrifices made by those who served and continue to serve to protect our country.