
Commonwealth War Cemeteries in Iraq
6 Squadron RAF, WW1 Aviation and My Books
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Blog Posts (193)
- Discovering Steve Buster Johnson's Legacy
PLEASE NOTE: This post was generated by AI and edited by Steve Buster Johnson When I first stumbled upon the work of Steve Buster Johnson, I was immediately drawn in by his passion for preserving history. His dedication to the stories of 6 Squadron RAF and British war cemeteries in Iraq is nothing short of inspiring. If you’ve ever wondered how one person can make such a difference in keeping military history alive, then you’re in for a treat. Let me take you on a journey through Steve’s biography and legacy, sharing what makes his work so vital and how it continues to impact families and historians alike. Steve Buster Johnson Biography: A Life Dedicated to History Steve Buster Johnson’s story is one of commitment and heartfelt advocacy. From an early age, he was fascinated by military history, particularly the stories of British service members who served in challenging theatres like Iraq. His interest wasn’t just academic; it was personal. Steve understood that behind every name on a war memorial, there was a story waiting to be told. What sets Steve apart is his hands-on approach. He doesn’t just write about history; he actively works to preserve it. This includes advocating for the restoration of neglected war cemeteries in Iraq, ensuring that the final resting places of British soldiers are treated with the respect they deserve. His efforts have brought attention to sites that many had forgotten, turning them into places of remembrance and education. Steve’s biography is also marked by his generosity. He offers free research assistance to families seeking information about their relatives who served in the British military. This service has been a lifeline for many, providing closure and connection to their heritage. Restored British war cemetery in Iraq The Importance of Preserving 6 Squadron RAF History One of Steve’s key focuses is the history of 6 Squadron RAF. This squadron has a rich and complex past, with members who served bravely in various conflicts. Steve’s work helps keep their stories alive, not just as names in a book but as real people who made sacrifices. He has compiled detailed records, photographs, and personal accounts that bring the squadron’s history to life. This is invaluable for military historians who want to understand the squadron’s role and impact. It also serves genealogists tracing family histories, providing them with a clearer picture of their ancestors’ military service. Steve’s dedication to 6 Squadron RAF goes beyond documentation. He actively campaigns for the preservation of memorials and sites connected to the squadron, ensuring that future generations can learn from and honour their legacy. 6 Squadron RAF badge representing the squadron's heritage How Steve Buster Johnson Supports Families and Researchers One of the most touching aspects of Steve’s work is his support for families of British service members. Many families face challenges when trying to find information about their loved ones who served overseas, especially in less well-known theatres like Iraq. Steve offers free research assistance, guiding families through archives, military records, and cemetery databases. His knowledge and connections make it easier for people to uncover stories that might otherwise remain hidden. This service is not just about facts; it’s about helping families connect with their history and find peace. For genealogists and historians, Steve provides a treasure trove of resources. His website and outreach efforts make it easier to access detailed information about 6 Squadron RAF and British war cemeteries. This openness and willingness to share knowledge is a hallmark of his legacy. Archival military documents used for research on British service members Practical Tips for Preserving Military History Locally Inspired by Steve’s work, you might be wondering how you can contribute to preserving military history in your own community. Here are some practical steps you can take: Visit Local War Memorials - Take the time to visit and document local memorials. Photograph them, note their condition, and share your findings with local historical societies. Engage with Families - Reach out to families who may have stories or memorabilia related to military service. Oral histories are invaluable. Volunteer for Restoration Projects - Many cemeteries and memorials need hands-on help. Look for local or national groups involved in restoration. Use Online Resources - Websites like stevebusterjohnson offer free research tools and guidance. Educate Others - Share what you learn through blogs, talks, or social media to raise awareness. By taking these steps, you help keep history alive and honour those who served. Why Steve Buster Johnson’s Legacy Matters Today In a world that often rushes forward, Steve Buster Johnson reminds us to pause and remember. His work is a bridge between past and present, connecting us to the sacrifices and stories of British service members. For military historians, genealogists, and families, his legacy is a beacon of hope and respect. Steve’s advocacy for the restoration of war cemeteries in Iraq is particularly important. These sites are not just graves; they are symbols of courage and loss. Preserving them ensures that history is not forgotten or erased by time and conflict. Moreover, Steve’s open-handed approach to sharing knowledge and assisting families sets a standard for how history should be preserved - with kindness, dedication, and accessibility. If you want to explore more about his work or seek assistance, visiting stevebusterjohnson is a great place to start. Exploring Steve Buster Johnson’s legacy has been a rewarding experience. His passion and dedication offer a powerful example of how one person can make a lasting impact on preserving military history. Whether you’re a historian, genealogist, or simply someone who values remembering the past, Steve’s work invites you to join in the effort to honour those who served and keep their stories alive.
- The Historical Importance of British War Cemeteries in Iraq: British War Cemeteries Significance
PLEASE NOTE: This post was generated by AI and edited by Steve Buster Johnson When I first started exploring the history of British military involvement in Iraq, I was struck by something I hadn’t given much thought to before: the British war cemeteries scattered across the country. These cemeteries are more than just resting places for fallen soldiers; they are silent storytellers, guardians of memory, and poignant reminders of the sacrifices made far from home. Today, I want to take you on a journey through the historical importance of British war cemeteries in Iraq, sharing insights that might deepen your appreciation for these solemn sites. Why British War Cemeteries in Iraq Matter British war cemeteries in Iraq hold a unique place in history. They are physical markers of the complex and often turbulent relationship between Britain and Iraq, especially during the two World Wars and subsequent conflicts. These cemeteries serve as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of British service members who fought in harsh and unfamiliar conditions. One of the most significant aspects of these cemeteries is their role in preserving history. Each headstone tells a story - of a life cut short, of battles fought, and of families left behind. For military historians and genealogists, these cemeteries are invaluable resources. They provide concrete evidence of where and when British forces were active, and they help piece together the broader narrative of military campaigns in the region. Moreover, these cemeteries are places of reflection and respect. They remind us that war is not just about strategies and outcomes but about human lives. Visiting these sites can be a deeply moving experience, offering a chance to connect with history on a personal level. British War Cemeteries Significance in Historical Context Understanding the significance of British war cemeteries in Iraq requires a bit of historical context. During World War I and World War II, Iraq was a strategic location for the British Empire. The Mesopotamian campaign in WWI, for example, was a brutal and challenging theatre of war. Many British soldiers lost their lives due to combat, disease, and harsh environmental conditions. The cemeteries established during and after these conflicts were designed not only to honour the dead but also to maintain a record of their sacrifice. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) played a crucial role in this, ensuring that the graves were properly maintained and that the names of the fallen were inscribed with dignity. These cemeteries also reflect the geopolitical shifts in the region. As Iraq moved from British mandate to independence, the cemeteries remained as enduring symbols of a shared, if complicated, history. They remind us that the legacy of war is not confined to battlefields but extends into the landscapes and communities where these soldiers rest. The Role of Preservation and Restoration One thing I’ve learned is that preserving these cemeteries is no small task. The harsh climate of Iraq, combined with decades of political instability, has taken a toll on many of these sites. This is where advocacy and active restoration efforts become vital. Steve Buster Johnson, for instance, is a passionate advocate for the restoration and preservation of British war cemeteries in Iraq. His work highlights the importance of maintaining these sites not just as historical landmarks but as places of honour and remembrance. Preservation efforts often involve cleaning, repairing headstones, and ensuring that the cemeteries remain accessible to visitors and researchers. For families of British service members, these cemeteries are often the only tangible connection to their ancestors’ sacrifices. Restoration projects help keep that connection alive, allowing future generations to pay their respects and learn about their heritage. Restoration work on a British war cemetery in Iraq How to Use British War Cemeteries for Research and Remembrance If you’re a genealogist or a military historian, British war cemeteries in Iraq can be a goldmine of information. Here are some practical tips on how to make the most of these sites: Plan Your Visit Carefully - Check the accessibility and security situation in the area. Some cemeteries may require special permission to visit. Use Online Resources - The Commonwealth War Graves Commission website is an excellent starting point. It provides detailed records of those buried in British war cemeteries worldwide. Document Your Findings - Take photos, notes, and GPS coordinates. This can help you build a comprehensive record for your research or family history. Connect with Local Experts - Sometimes local historians or caretakers have valuable insights and stories that aren’t recorded elsewhere. Respect the Site - Remember, these are places of remembrance. Approach with respect and sensitivity. For those who cannot visit in person, many organizations, including Steve Buster Johnson’s online resource, offer free research assistance. This can be a lifeline for families seeking information about their loved ones. Why These Cemeteries Should Matter to Us All You might wonder why British war cemeteries in Iraq should matter beyond the immediate circles of historians and families. Well, these cemeteries are part of a global story about conflict, sacrifice, and memory. They remind us that history is not just about dates and battles but about people. In a world where the past can sometimes feel distant, these cemeteries bring history to life. They encourage us to reflect on the cost of war and the value of peace. They also highlight the importance of preserving history in all its forms - from grand monuments to humble headstones. By supporting efforts to maintain and restore these cemeteries, we honour not only those who served but also the shared human experience that connects us across time and place. Keeping the Memory Alive: A Personal Reflection Visiting a British war cemetery in Iraq is a profoundly moving experience. Standing among the rows of white headstones, you can’t help but feel a connection to the past. It’s a reminder that history is not just something we read about in books - it’s something we live with, something that shapes our present and future. I encourage you to explore these sites, whether virtually or in person. Dive into the stories they hold, and consider how you might contribute to preserving this important heritage. After all, remembering is an act of respect, and respect is the foundation of understanding. If you want to learn more or need help with research, don’t hesitate to reach out to resources like Steve Buster Johnson’s website, which aims to be the definitive online resource for the history of 6 Squadron RAF and British war cemeteries in Iraq. Thanks for joining me on this journey through the historical importance of British war cemeteries in Iraq. I hope it’s sparked your curiosity and deepened your appreciation for these remarkable sites. Until next time, keep exploring and honouring the past!
- Unveiling the Literary Works of Steve Buster Johnson: A Deep Dive into History and Heritage
PLEASE NOTE: This post was generated by AI and edited by Steve Buster Johnson When I first stumbled upon the literary works of Steve Buster Johnson, I was immediately drawn in by the unique blend of meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling. If you have even a passing interest in military history, especially the rich and often overlooked stories of the 6 Squadron RAF, British war cemeteries in Iraq or autobiographies and biographies set in England over the past 150 years, then you’re in for a treat. Non-fiction and fiction, Steve Buster Johnson’s writings are not just books; they are gateways to the past, carefully crafted to preserve memories so that they will not be forgotten. Exploring the Steve Buster Johnson Literary Works Steve Buster Johnson has carved out a niche that is both scholarly and deeply personal. His literary works include the history of the 6 Squadron RAF, a unit with a storied past, and the British war cemeteries scattered across Iraq. What makes his work stand out is the passion behind it - he is not just an author but an advocate for restoration and preservation. His books provide detailed accounts of military operations, personal stories of servicemen, and the ongoing efforts to maintain the dignity of war graves. For anyone researching British military personnel or tracing family histories, these works are invaluable. They offer free research assistance, which is a remarkable resource for genealogists and families alike. One of the things I appreciate most is how accessible his writing is. Despite the depth of information, the language remains clear and engaging. You don’t need to be a military expert to follow along, but you’ll certainly come away with a richer understanding of the sacrifices made. The Heart of the Matter: Advocacy Through Literature What truly sets Steve Buster Johnson apart is his commitment beyond the page. His literary works are part of a larger mission to ensure that the stories of the 6 Squadron RAF, British war cemeteries in Iraq and old-English life are not forgotten. He actively campaigns for the restoration of these sites, which have faced neglect and the ravages of time. This advocacy is woven into his writing. You’ll find chapters dedicated to the history of the cemeteries, the challenges of preservation, and the importance of remembering those who served. It’s a call to action wrapped in compelling narrative. For military historians, this is a goldmine of information. For families, it’s a source of comfort and connection. And for anyone interested in heritage preservation, it’s an inspiring example of how literature can make a real-world impact. The first seven books of Steve Buster Johnson How to Make the Most of Steve Buster Johnson Books If you’re keen to dive into the world Steve Buster Johnson has opened up, here are some tips to get the most out of his works: Start with the historical context - Familiarise yourself with the 6 Squadron RAF’s role in British military history. This background will enrich your reading experience. Use the research assistance - If you’re tracing a family member or a specific serviceman, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. The free research support is a fantastic resource. Engage with the preservation efforts - Consider how you might contribute to or support the restoration of war cemeteries. Even small actions can make a difference. Take notes and cross-reference - Stevebusterjohnson books are packed with details. Keeping track of names, dates, and places will help you build a clearer picture. Share the stories - Whether with family, friends, or fellow historians, spreading the word helps keep these histories alive. For those interested, you can explore more about stevebusterjohnson books and discover the full range of his literary contributions. Why These Works Matter Today In a world that often rushes forward, it’s easy to lose sight of the past. Steve Buster Johnson’s literary works serve as a vital reminder of the sacrifices made and the importance of remembrance. They connect us to the human stories behind the history books and the names etched on memorials. For genealogists, these writings offer a bridge to ancestors who served with honour. For military historians, they provide fresh insights and detailed records. And for families, they offer a sense of closure and pride. The preservation of war cemeteries in Iraq is not just about maintaining physical sites; it’s about honouring legacy and ensuring that future generations understand the cost of freedom. A Personal Reflection on Steve Buster Johnson’s Impact Reading through Steve Buster Johnson’s works, I found myself reflecting on the power of storytelling in preserving history. His dedication is a reminder that history is not just dates and battles - it’s people, memories, and respect. If you’re passionate about military history or family heritage, I encourage you to explore his books. They are more than just texts; they are acts of remembrance and advocacy. And who knows? You might find yourself inspired to contribute to this important cause in your own way. So, whether you’re a seasoned historian or just starting your journey into British military history, Steve Buster Johnson’s literary works offer a warm, informative, and deeply respectful window into a world worth remembering.
Other Pages (152)
- Commonwealth War Graves cemeteries in Iraq | WW1 Aviation research and books | 6 Squadron RAF | Steve Buster Johnson
History and photos of Commonwealth Cemeteries in Iraq (Ma'Asker, Habbaniya, Basra and Khanaqin), Six Squadron Royal Air Force, WW1 Aviation and books written by Steve Buster Johnson CWGC Cemetery Graves in Iraq, WW1 Aviation & 6 Sqn RAF The original purpose of my website was to promote my books and 6 Squadron RAF, but in recent years I have spent most of my time promoting the cause of restoring British military cemeteries in Iraq, in particular the long-abandoned Commonwealth War Graves maintained Royal Air Force Cemetery at what was once RAF Hinaidi, namely the Ma'Asker Al Raschid cemetery in Baghdad. Seven years of research has enabled me to become an authority on this and other British cemeteries in Iraq. With the co-operation of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission I am also able to provide visitors to my website information that will not be found anywhere else, particularly photographs of the 77 identifiable headstones (complete and fragmented) that still exist at Ma'Asker and photographs of all of the 290 headstones at the Habbaniyah War Cemetery. RAF Hinaidi, Baghdad, IRAQ The Royal Air Force took over control of all British Forces in Iraq in October 1922, requiring a bigger RAF station than its old HQ in Baghdad West. The new site, named RAF Hinaidi, was established in the south of the city, eight miles south-east of Baghdad West, on the eastern bank of the River Tigris. To protect the low-lying land from flooding, a bund was constructed around the perimeter of the cantonment, eight and a quarter miles in length and surrounding an area of 2,500 acres. RAF Hinaidi was operational from 1921 until January 1938, by which time all British operations had been moved to RAF Dhibban, later renamed RAF Habbaniya. Ma'Asker Al Raschid (Hinaidi) RAF Cemetery Throughout the operational life of RAF Hinaidi, most British servicemen and women who died in Iraq were buried at the Hinaidi RAF Peace Cemetery, located at the south-western corner of the cantonment. The land upon which RAF Hinaidi stood was handed over to the Iraqi government in January 1938 with the exception of the cemetery grounds which remained the property of the British Ministry of Defence. It was agreed that the cemetery would be maintained in perpetuity by the Imperial War Graves Commission, name later changed to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Sadly, over the next eighty years, the cemetery (since renamed the Ma'Asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery or more simply the Rasheed Cemetery) containing 300 graves gradually fell into disrepair and by 1975 was abandoned altogether by the CWGC (click HERE for a timeline of the cemetery). I first became aware of the appalling condition of the Ma'Asker RAF Cemetery in 2018 whilst researching the death of a WW1 'ace' pilot who was killed in 1922 taking off on a mission from RAF Hinaidi. He was buried in the cemetery, half a mile from where his Bristol FB2 Fighter crashed. At the end of 2021, thanks in the main to the support and perseverance of the British Embassy staff in Baghdad, particularly Defence Attaché Brigadier Adam McRae, a new wall was constructed around the cemetery, with a contract put in place to pay for a caretaker. Sadly, though approval was given in December 2022 for the local contractors who built the new cemetery wall to commence Stage 2 of the restoration (moving the remaining headstones to one side, tidying up the site and repositioning the seventy-seven 77 surviving headstones ), this work was suspended by the JCCC (Joint Casualty and Compassionate Centre) until such time the CWGC/MoD/JCCC could come to a decision as to what restoration works should be carried out at Ma'Asker and the appropriate timeframe, especially given the delicate political situation in Iraq. Click HERE for the full story. On the 26th July 2025 I was informed by the Area Director Africa & Asia at the CWGC that a local Iraqi contractor had won the contract for the first phase of restoration and that work on site would commence in the 'near future'. Sadly there has since been a hiccup in the process and alternative arrangements are being discussed. However it is still anticipated that work will commence before the end of 2025. . . . . . . . . . . . After delay upon delay I had a telephone conversation with the Area Director Africa & Asia on the 15th December 2025 which at face value was very disappointing but upon reflection is the only way in which progress will ever be made at Ma'Asker, namely to start afresh with the project and hire a local (viz. living in Baghdad) Iraqi project manager who will be the 'hands-on' manager for the restoration works at Ma'Asker and all of the other CWGC sites in Iraq. With the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) currently not recommending travel to Iraq, no employee of the CWGC is permitted to go to Ma'Asker, though a civilian like me can take that risk if he or she so chooses. It is hoped that an Iraqi project manager will be hired early in 2026 and that a contract for the first phase of restoration will be drawn up as a matter of priority. At least, this is the plan. Habbaniyah War Cemetery I expanded my website in January 2024 to include a section devoted to the men and women who are buried at the Habbaniyah War Cemetery, 55 miles west of Baghdad. The cemetery was originally part of RAF Dhibban, later known as RAF Habbaniyah. I have added details of each of the 290 people buried there, including the location and a photograph of every individual grave. If you want to see headstone photographs for the 290 burials at the Habbaniyah War Cemetery, they will only be found on my website For more information on the history of RAF Habbaniyah, take a look at the RAF Habbaniyah Association website or send me a message via the CONTACT tab at the top of this page as I have access to most of the now disbanded RAF Habbaniyah Association's archives. Khanaqin War Cemetery and Basra / Amara War Cemeteries These two sections of my website are recent additions and were completed on the 2nd October 2025. They will be expanded over time as more information and photographs come to hand. 6 Squadron Royal Air Force - The Early Years The original purpose of my website was to document the early years of 6 Squadron. This evolved from my first book, For God, England & Ethel , the story of my grandfather who served with 6 Squadron on the Western Front during WW1. I also wanted to display some of the research material that didn't end up in the book. The website has expanded a lot over the past twenty years but 6 Squadron still plays a major part, with sections on the 6 Squadron journal, the Tin-opener , the squadron's move to Mesopotamia after WW1, the role it played in Italy during WW2 in 1944, Facts & Figures on the squadron's early operations, the types of aircraft on charge during that time, numerous WW1 photos , the 6 Squadron Roll of Honour as well as profiles of several 6 Squadron pioneers. Photographs and Statistics on WW1 Military Aviation My website also contains photographs covering WW1 and the inter-War years, with an emphasis on 6 Squadron Royal Flying Corps (later Royal Air Force). There is also a section with 43 pages of high definition aerial photographs (two to a page) taken by 6 Squadron aircraft in May and June 1917, before and after the Battle of Messines . Recently added are images of WW1 maps and photographs as well as copies of every page of my grandfather's WW1 wireless training document . Updated 26th April 2026 Steve ' Bus ter' Johnson CONTACT ME New South Wales, AUSTRALIA NEW BOOKS My seventh and eighth books have recently been published by Amazon / Kindle (4th February 2026 and 12th February 2026): The Cordwainer's Daughter - Copies can initially be purchased from Amazon in paperback or hardback and eventually from other on-line book stores. Rigger's Notes for WW1 British Aircraft - pdf file can be viewed for free or the book can be purchased from Amazon at a low cost, in paperback or Ebook format Recent News / Blog Topics Exploring the Legacy of Steve Buster Johnson Works Ma'Asker Al Raschid Cemetery, RAF Death from Bubonic Plague in Baghdad 1922 KORR and RAF Deaths in May 1941 during the Anglo-Iraqi War RAF Death from Typhoid in Iraq 1932 Who is Steve Buster Johnson? Unearthed 1945 Funeral Photograph at the Habbaniya War Cemetery Rare Photo of Habbaniya War Cemetery Entrance 2005 RAF Habbaniya Cantonment - First Ever Satellite / Diagram Overlay Image Habbaniya War Cemetery - First Ever Satellite / Diagram Overlay Image Mysterious Death at the British Defence Service Organisation, Baghdad, 1945 RAF Hinaidi Master Plan, Iraq Detailed Colour Map of RAF Habbaniya Cantonment, Iraq There was a technical issue on our end. Try again or refresh.
- Test Links | stevebusterjohnson
This page is for access to administrator only and should never be seen by visitors to this website Test Links For fantastic luxury house designs talk to Toby Johnson at Johnstone Johnson Design Studio 70 Squadron One Valve F RAF Front WW1 Schematic HT Trans Wind RAF Single 30 Sqn Con Wave Action Con Wave Nts 203 Sqn Cont Wv Tm RAF W TRN Long Wv Cr AC Depot H AC TRN 1918 RAF 1918 TR I Test From button Anchor 1 Anchor 2
- remembrance Day 2025 and 2025 at Ma'Asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery Baghdad
These are photographs taken of the Remembrance Day laying of wreaths 2024 and 2025 at the Ma'Asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery, Iraq Remembrance Day 2024 / 2025 at Ma'Asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery Wreath-Laying at Ma'Asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery, 2024 Though it was not possible to commemorate Remembrance Day this year (2024) at the Ma’Asker Al Raschid Cemetery on the traditional date, it was fitting that the UK Defence Attaché in Iraq, Brigadier Graeme Wearmouth, an ex-commanding officer of 2nd Battalion of The Royal Regiment of Scotland (2 SCOTS), led a representation from the UK Embassy in Baghdad to visit Ma'Asker on St Andrew’s Day, the 30th November. Whilst at the cemetery, Brigadier Wearmouth, accompanied by the UK Royal Air Force Sergeant DCLO (Diplomatic Communications Liaison Officer) and the UK Chargé d’Affaires in Baghdad, Ms. Rosy Cave, honoured the three hundred men and women who died in Iraq whilst in the service of their country by laying wreaths at the headstone of Lieutenant George Donald Edward Heather of the North Lancashire (Loyal) Regiment. In spite of being severely damaged and moved from its original position, Lieutenant Heather’s headstone is still in close proximity to his grave in the eastern half of Plot 3, as you can see on the c1930 photograph immediately below this text where I have marked the position of his grave. The photograph was taken from the north-eastern corner of Plot 3 looking towards the north-western corner of the cemetery. On the day of his death, Lieutenant Heather was flying as the observer/gunner in a 30 Squadron DH9a two-seater light bomber when it crashed at the village of Malula, east of Kirkuk (cause of the accident unknown). Both Heather and his pilot Flying Officer Marius Penny were killed in the crash. The men’s bodies were transported one hundred and seventy miles south to RAF Hinaidi where they were buried side by side in the cemetery the following day (Plot 3 Row I Grave 2 and Plot 3 Row I Grave 3 respectively). At the time of his death, Lieutenant Heather was attached to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment of the RAF Levies. Below is a selection of photographs taken during the St Andrew’s Day 2024 wreath-laying ceremony at the Ma'Asker Al Raschid cemetery. Nine of the graves at the Ma'Asker Al Raschid Cemetery (representing 12.5% of all British Army burials at Ma’Asker) are for men who were serving with Scottish Regiments at the time of their death, with eight men serving with the 2nd Battalion of the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) and one man serving with the City of Glasgow Regiment, (then the ‘Highland Light Infantry’). Though only 71 of the original 300 headstones remain in an identifiable condition, two of the nine Scottish Regiment headstones have survived the ravages of time, namely Private James McCann of the Scottish Rifles and Captain Michael Wallace of the Highland Light Infantry. The photograph below shows Brigadier Graeme Wearmouth standing in front of the remains of the headstone for Captain Michael Hugh Wallace, who died from Cerebral Malaria in the RAF Hinaidi General Hospital in Baghdad on the 2nd August 1929 and was buried in the Hinaidi RAF Peace Cemetery (later renamed the Ma’Asker Al Raschid Cemetery) in Plot 1 Row A Grave 9). Wreath-Laying at Ma'Asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery, 2025 Remembrance Day came early for the British men and women who died in the service of their country in Iraq and were buried at the Ma'Asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery. The HM Consul to Iraq, Mr Iain McLean, accompanied by the UK Defence Attaché to Iraq Brigadier Graeme Wearmouth and his Deputy Commander Tim Greaves Royal Navy laid wreaths in front of two of the surviving headstones, those for Flying Officer Aubrey Ledger (55 Squadron RAF) and Private J McCann of the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) British Army. The Ma'Asker Al Raschid RAF Cemetery (originally named the Hinaidi RAF Peace Cemetery) is the final resting place of 300 British citizens who gave their lives for Great Britain whilst serving in Iraq between December 1921 and December 1937. Plans are in place to begin restoration work for this long abandoned British Royal Air Force cemetery (see the relevant sections of this website for more information).





