While showcasing a series of biography boards dedicated to local servicemen and women from the Second World War, a museum volunteer was approached by a family showing particular interest in one of the displays. To their astonishment, the board featured their own family member — Corporal William Tweedale, a local veteran who took part in the Allied invasion of Normandy.
The biography was originally researched as part of the museum’s involvement in the Winston Churchill memorial in Normandy, where it was the only UK museum selected to take part in the commemorations.
What made the moment even more special was that Corporal Tweedale’s great-grandchildren, Charlie and Will Ferguson, were also at the event — proudly representing Haslingden Army Cadets. Aged just 13, the two cadets stood alongside their great-grandfather’s board for a photograph, symbolising the powerful connection between past and present generations of service.
In a statement, the museum shared:
“It gives us enormous joy to have moments like this — to see a family so moved that their loved one is being remembered. It’s fitting that his biography was displayed at the 80th anniversary of D-Day, and that he continues to be honoured through our work.”
The Veterans Living History Museum CIC continues its mission to bring history to life and to the people, with its next major event taking place at the Trafford Centre as part of the VE80 anniversary celebrations.
“We will remember them.”
