1:00pm Sunday 6th December 2009
By Julie Magee
THE grieving mother of Rifleman Phil Allen has penned her own personal tribute to the fallen hero as she finalises arrangements for his funeral service tomorrow.
And his sister Leah has also put her feelings into verse as she struggles to cope with her sense of loss.
Karen Charman-Allen said: “Leah plans to compile a book of poetry and donate the proceeds to the Rifles and Army benevolent funds. It’s her way of expressing her emotions following Phil’s death.”
More than 1,000 mourners are expected to attend Rifleman Allen’s funeral at Wimborne Minster.
The 20-year-old, who proposed to his girlfriend Karina Pharoah on the day he flew out to Afghanistan, was killed by an improvised explosive device on the eve of Remembrance Day.
After leaving his family’s home in Verwood at 12.15pm on Tuesday, the cortege will make its way through the town, stopping for a minute’s silence outside the war memorial.
Royal British Legion standard bearers will provide a guard of honour and local businesses will close as a mark of respect as the funeral procession passes through Wimborne for the 1pm service.
Karen said: “There are so many people coming that a public address system will be set up to ensure that those outside the Minster can also hear the service. Special parking arrangements will be made.
“We have chosen traditional military hymns with very poignant words. Phil’s heart and soul were in the Rifles; he knew the risks but always wanted to be a soldier.
“He was so proud to be serving his country. As his mother, I was very proud of him. I have been overwhelmed by the messages of sympathy I have received, including tributes from those who served with Phil in Afghanistan.” The funeral service will be conducted by the Rev Andrew Sinclar, vicar of St Michael’s and All Angels Church in Verwood, and Army padre the Rev Tracey Bateson.
Afterwards there will be a private family cremation at Poole crematorium.
• Donations to the Rifles Benevolent Fund, in memory of Rifleman Allen, can be sent to Nicholas O’Hara funeral directors at 38 Rowlands Hill, Wimborne, BH21 1AW.
To My Son
by Karen Charman-Allen
My dear Son, although I cannot see you, Through this screen, I know you are really there.
I bring you into reality, Like magic in the air.
Your voice is like an angel, Though I really do not hear.
Your hugs as warm as any, Of the loved ones I hold dear.
You are always there for comfort, or with words of cheer.
Though you are far away, I will always have you near.
You are a very special son and friend, Like none I have ever known.
As long as you are in my heart I’ll never be alone.
Their Today, Our Tomorrow
by Leah Charman
The news is spread far and wide, Another comrade has sadly died,
A sunset vigil upon the sand, As another soldier leaves the foreign land.
They stand alone, and yet as one, In the fading light of a setting sun.
They’ve all gathered to say goodbye, To their fallen brother who’s set to fly.
The padre that calls them all to pray, The bugler has last post to play.
The engines start with wild flame, They will recall, with pride their name.
A minute’s silence will stand in place, As tears roll down those hardened faces.
Eerie silence fills the air, With each of them in personal prayer.
Still in silence, the parade is done, One hero remembered, forgotten by none.
They leave to start the journey back, In a coffin draped with a Union Jack.
We Will Remember.
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