By October 1942 Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Burma had all fallen to the Japanese Imperial Army which looked unbeatable: at this time with morale of the Allied Forces at its lowest mark, a situation that the new British commander Bill Slim set about reforming thus rebuilding the Anglo-Indian Army.

The Battles of Kohima and Imphal, March to July 1944, were crucial turning points in thwarting the attempted Japanese invasion of India during World War 2. They are widely recognised by historians as pivotal battles of WW2, which explains the reasons behind the commemorations, held at the Sidmouth Parish Church War Memorial on 22 June and 18 July respectively, being included in the programme of such ceremonies drawn up by local branches of the Royal British Legion, Royal Naval Old Comrades Association and Sidmouth Town Council.

On Thursday, July 18, the weather was again kind for the Parish vicar, Reverend Matt Seldon, to deliver the address and lead the prayers along with the wreaths laid by Chris Holland, Town clerk Sidmouth Town Council and Ralph Hickman, Royal British Legion whilst the standards were lowered.

For those interested in gaining further knowledge of the Burma campaign it is recommended both the Kohima Educational Trust and the Burma Start Memorial Fund websites will provide the information being sought.

Of interest, after the conclusion of the ceremony, by way of conversation between those in attendance more links became known between the Burma campaign and those who resided in the Sid Valley, leads which will be well worthy of following up to ensure those who so bravely served in the 14th Army will not be forgotten. 

The next commemoration of the 80th anniversaries will be Operation Market Garden on 25th September. On the 31st August for the first time the town will be honouring all those service men and women and their families whose health was seriously affected by the nuclear tests on Christmas Island. Generations on still suffer from the consequences. All are welcome to come and watch or participate in the parade.