Lisbon Maru Memorial Service
Every year on October 2nd LiMMA organises a Service of Remembrance for the POWs aboard the Lisbon Maru
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Read Glyn Jones' poem "The Lisbon Maru" 
For this year's service a group of around 70 members of LiMMA, descendants, dignitaries, and friends gathered in front of the Lisbon Maru Memorial for a simple, respectful, inclusive ceremony which lasted approximately one hour.
The service was led by Rev. Jean Clements, niece of Private Kenneth T Hodkinson and included a personal account from Geoff Haviland about the life of his father Telegraphist Charles Stephen Haviland, a poem from Glyn Jones, son of Telegraphist Thomas Theodore Jones and readings from Gerry Borge, son of Private John Borg. Two pipers played several pieces including Amazing Grace.
For the first time, members of the Chinese Embassy were also in attendance. Their presence reflecting a shared commitment to ensuring the events surrounding the Lisbon Maru are neither forgotten, nor misunderstood and offering a moving reminder that remembrance transcends borders and generations.
We were especially honoured to welcome Madam Linlin Yang, who flew in from Zhoushan, China, to deliver a speech on behalf of the fishermen's families. As part of the ceremony Madam Yang sprinkled seawater, collected from where the Lisbon Maru sank, on the memorial to offer solace to those who perished.
It was a poingnant, inclusive, moving and meaningful ceremony accompanied by a beautifully produced order of service.
Following the service, a reception was held at the Royal British Legion in Alrewas, which was a great opportunity for everyone involved to meet and exchange stories over a buffet lunch and a drink. The friendships which have grown from this tragedy are special and enduring and the gathering added a welcome sense of community to the day’s events.
Thanks, on behalf of all the relatives, to the LiMMA Steering Group and all those involved in organising such a wonderful event.
The annual gathering is an important opportunity to honour and remember those we lost and to connect with others, who share this heritage. The men of the Lisbon Maru will not be forgotten and LiMMA remains steadfast in ensuring their stories continue to be honoured for generations to come. Everyone is welcome at the annual service and we sincerely hope you can join us in future years.