Nova Scotia/Nunavut Command of The Royal Canadian Legion www.ns.legion.ca 121 Sam's older brother John, all living together in what was known as Church House which was located and still is - beside the Miserden Church itself. Miserden It was my privilege along with Len Westwood to actually visit the village and church which are in a delightful fairytale setting. We were able to take pictures both inside and out. We became captivated by a plaque on the back wall inside the church depicting a memorial of F/O Alfred Samuel Holder DFC Killed in Action over Kiel May 2-3 1945 If ever I was close to the past, it was at that moment. Such a beautiful church; such a beautiful moment. I knew Len was as caught up in the atmosphere of events as I was. We were so close to something -1 cherished every moment of it. While taking all this in, the entrance door opened and in walked a nice looking couple who turned out to be Margery and Vivian Holder. They took us under their wing. We went to the farm of Keith Holder and family where we were treated to a wonderful luncheon and the opportunity to meet other family members. We knew they enjoyed meeting us as much as we enjoyed meeting them. For me to see and feel Miserden through Sam's memory put the previous 50 years in perspective and was the most rewarding thing that ever happened to me. Without the Westwoods none of this would have happened. I felt so comfortable knowing that Len felt as involved as I. We talk often, Len and I, of that day. I know that he and his dear wife Margaret will revisit Miserden again sometime. I have thought many times that if I were a younger man and circumstances permitted, I would like to make a pilgrimage to the grave site in Kiel War Cemetery. Who knows where our travels may take us. Kaye and I have had this desire to visit the Scandinavian countries for some time now. This story started with a picture on a night table, and it involved a trail that eventually took me to a little English village. I feel a special bond with Vivian and Keith, the nephews of Alfred Samuel Holder, and their families. I feel a special affection for Church House, the church and the village of Miserden. I am indebted to all those who helped solve the mystery and who helped make the pilgrimage to Miserden happen. War Monument, Miserden, England Background: Church and Church House, The Holder Home continued ... continued ...
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