IMRG The Foundry, Canterbury honours the memory of those who served by maintaining war graves across Kent. One such grave is that of L/Cpl George Rigden, a young soldier who gave his life in the First World War. Through remembrance and care, we ensure his sacrifice — and the sacrifices of countless others — are never forgotten.
1. Our Commitment
In 2021, we decided to care for a local war grave as part of our ongoing commitment to honour fallen heroes. After researching several options, we chose a grave at St Andrews Church, Buckland, Dover, giving George Rigden the lasting recognition he deserves.
2. The Story of L/Cpl George Rigden
L/10001, Lance Corporal George Rigden, served with the 2nd Battalion, East Kent Regiment (The Buffs). He enlisted in 1914 at the outbreak of war and was deployed to France, seeing action mainly around Ypres. Tragically, he died from his wounds on 2nd December 1915, aged just 20. He was awarded the 1914/15 Star with Clasp and the Victory Medal (posthumously).
On 13th November 2021, during our annual Remembrance ride, we laid wreaths at Folkestone Harbour — where many troops departed for France — and at local memorials. We also paid tribute at L/Cpl George Rigden’s grave, a small but meaningful act to honour his sacrifice and preserve his story for future generations.
