Regiment memorial fund launched
Friday 14 January 2011 6:00 PM
An appeal is being made to fund a national memorial for fallen soldiers from Durham's historic regiment.
A total of £75,000 is wanted for a life-size bronze statue of a Durham Light Infantry (DLI) bugler dressed in the combat uniform of the Korean War.
The idea came from two former soldiers who visited the National Memorial Arboretum, Staffordshire - home to many different memorials, but not the DLI.
The pair have already raised £6,000 towards the memorial.
Battle honour
Former Sergeant Keith Straughier and his friend, former Corporal Richard Softley will be present at the launch of the Durham Light Infantry Memorial Appeal at the Durham Light Infantry Museum, Aykley Heads, Durham on Friday.
Korea was the regiment's last battle honour and their buglers sounded the ceasefire for the Commonwealth Division from a hilltop in the front line.
The Durham Light Infantry has evolved through the years to become The Rifles.
The appeal has been launched to coincide with an exhibition, "Courageous Restraint" - which highlights the bravery and the work of the 3rd Battalion The Rifles during its recent tour of Afghanistan - which is being held at the DLI Museum.
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