0:00:00 > 0:00:01- Subtitles
0:00:01 > 0:00:03- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:00:06 > 0:00:08- WHISTLE
0:00:08 > 0:00:09- Fire!
0:00:13 > 0:00:17- "Bitter to live in times like these
0:00:17 > 0:00:21- "While God declines beyond the seas
0:00:21 > 0:00:24- "Instead, man, king or peasantry
0:00:24 > 0:00:27- "Raises his gross authority
0:00:28 > 0:00:31- "When he thinks God has gone away
0:00:31 > 0:00:34- "Man takes up his sword to slay
0:00:34 > 0:00:37- "His brother; - we can hear death's roar
0:00:37 > 0:00:41- "It shadows the hovels of the poor
0:00:42 > 0:00:45- "Like the old songs they left behind
0:00:45 > 0:00:47- "We hung our harps - in the willows again
0:00:48 > 0:00:51- "Ballads of boys blow on the wind
0:00:51 > 0:00:55- "Their blood - is mingled with the rain."
0:00:57 > 0:01:02- REMEMBERING - HEDD WYN
0:01:03 > 0:01:06- Rhyfel is one of the most famous - of Hedd Wyn's poems.
0:01:06 > 0:01:09- It was read - by Gwydion Rhys from Rachub...
0:01:09 > 0:01:13- ..at Artillery Wood Cemetery - where Hedd Wyn is buried...
0:01:14 > 0:01:16- ..in Flanders Fields in Belgium.
0:01:16 > 0:01:21- Hedd Wyn was killed on the first day - of the Battle of Passchendaele...
0:01:21 > 0:01:25- ..a century ago - on the last day of July in 1917.
0:01:25 > 0:01:30- Tonight's Heno follows the events - of remembrance in Flanders.
0:01:30 > 0:01:34- Many have travelled from Wales - to remember Hedd Wyn...
0:01:34 > 0:01:39- ..and the thousands of soldiers - who were killed in the Great War.
0:01:47 > 0:01:50- In the days - prior to the events in Flanders...
0:01:50 > 0:01:54- ..many people prepared - to travel to Belgium.
0:01:55 > 0:01:59- They included a group - of classic car owners in Swansea.
0:02:00 > 0:02:03- This is the second trip - for me to organize.
0:02:04 > 0:02:05- Last year's trip...
0:02:05 > 0:02:10- ..was to commemorate the centenary - of the Battle of Mametz Wood.
0:02:10 > 0:02:15- It was a real success so I was asked - to organize another trip.
0:02:15 > 0:02:20- I thought it was apt as it's the - centenary of the death of Hedd Wyn.
0:02:22 > 0:02:27- As a young boy, - my parents took me to North Wales...
0:02:27 > 0:02:31- ..and we passed Yr Ysgwrn, - the home of Hedd Wyn.
0:02:31 > 0:02:34- I still remember - going into that house.
0:02:35 > 0:02:38- The family still lived there - and I saw the Chair.
0:02:40 > 0:02:44- The drivers got emotional - as they left Swansea...
0:02:44 > 0:02:48- ..and thought of the journey - taken by Hedd Wyn a century earlier.
0:02:49 > 0:02:53- It speaks to the heart - and was a great loss.
0:02:53 > 0:02:59- He had only joined the army - at the start of 1917...
0:02:59 > 0:03:04- ..and he was killed in the same year - so it's quite heart-wrenching.
0:03:08 > 0:03:12- Another group - preparing to travel to Flanders...
0:03:12 > 0:03:15- ..was the North Wales Rugby Choir.
0:03:15 > 0:03:19- The tenors are perfect, as always.
0:03:20 > 0:03:24- The choir is preparing to go - to Flanders for the fourth time.
0:03:24 > 0:03:26- We're very excited about it...
0:03:26 > 0:03:30- ..as it's 100 years - since the death of Hedd Wyn...
0:03:30 > 0:03:33- ..and the start - of the Battle of Passchendaele.
0:03:33 > 0:03:35- It will be a busy week...
0:03:35 > 0:03:39- ..as we're performing and - singing in a number of locations.
0:03:40 > 0:03:43- # For Wales our land
0:03:44 > 0:03:49- # O Father hear our prayer #
0:03:49 > 0:03:54- We have a very full program - of events for the week.
0:03:55 > 0:03:58- There's an important concert - at Langemark.
0:03:58 > 0:04:02- We'll also sing at Artillery Wood - Cemetery at Hedd Wyn's grave.
0:04:02 > 0:04:06- A memorial will be unveiled - to Hedd Wyn at that spot.
0:04:06 > 0:04:10- # O make our Wales
0:04:10 > 0:04:15- # In your own image, Lord #
0:04:16 > 0:04:20- One of the most significant things - I'm excited about...
0:04:20 > 0:04:23- ..is being there - on the last day of July.
0:04:23 > 0:04:27- This was when they fired the shot - at 5.00am...
0:04:27 > 0:04:32- ..to start the Third Battle of Ypres - or the Battle of Passchendaele.
0:04:32 > 0:04:35- That day saw the death of Hedd Wyn - and thousands more.
0:04:36 > 0:04:37- It was a very bloody battle.
0:04:38 > 0:04:43- I'm sure that in those early hours, - people will remember him...
0:04:43 > 0:04:49- ..and we'll appreciate the sacrifice - of all those soldiers...
0:04:49 > 0:04:51- ..from every country.
0:04:51 > 0:04:54- That's the time - when I'll think seriously...
0:04:54 > 0:04:59- ..of the significance of the - centenary and I'll never forget it.
0:04:59 > 0:05:04- # ..when oer our barren land
0:05:04 > 0:05:08- # Reviving winds blow... #
0:05:08 > 0:05:13- It's our last rehearsal before going - to Flanders so it's a bit tense...
0:05:14 > 0:05:17- ..but they are at the top - of their game.
0:05:17 > 0:05:22- I've tried to prepare them for - singing at various events.
0:05:22 > 0:05:27- They will perform outdoors - in the cemeteries, in churches...
0:05:28 > 0:05:33- ..and at the Menin Gate - where the acoustics are incredible.
0:05:33 > 0:05:37- They will have - an array of experiences...
0:05:37 > 0:05:42- ..and have to use their voices in - different ways to fit each location.
0:05:42 > 0:05:49- # Our gentle Lamb and King
0:05:51 > 0:05:56- # A-men
0:05:56 > 0:06:03- # A-a-men #
0:06:16 > 0:06:21- After reaching Flanders, the choir - visited two military cemeteries.
0:06:21 > 0:06:27- The first was the German - war cemetery of Langemark.
0:06:30 > 0:06:34- My first impression of the - German cemetery in Langemark...
0:06:35 > 0:06:38- ..and members of the choir - will notice as well...
0:06:38 > 0:06:43- ..the contrast between this cemetery - and the Commonwealth Cemetery.
0:06:43 > 0:06:45- Yes, it's amazing.
0:06:45 > 0:06:48- On a British cemetery, - you feel victory.
0:06:48 > 0:06:51- They are beautiful - and refer to an English garden.
0:06:51 > 0:06:54- Over here, you feel the defeat.
0:06:54 > 0:06:58- Another striking feature - of this cemetery are the trees.
0:06:58 > 0:07:02- Yes, and in the summer, it's nice - as you have the sun and it's open.
0:07:03 > 0:07:05- In the winter, it's dark...
0:07:05 > 0:07:09- ..you see these dark oaks - and get a bad impression.
0:07:09 > 0:07:14- You feel the defeat - and the pressure of that cemetery.
0:07:14 > 0:07:19- The buildings, the trees - and stones are dark - it's all dark.
0:07:33 > 0:07:36- You're Anita Thomas today...
0:07:36 > 0:07:40- ..but your maiden name was Thieme.
0:07:40 > 0:07:44- There are hundreds - of German surnames...
0:07:44 > 0:07:49- ..on this memorial in the cemetery - at Langemark including one Thieme.
0:07:49 > 0:07:51- Is it a relation?
0:07:51 > 0:07:54- I don't know as I just came here - and saw the name.
0:07:55 > 0:07:59- Dad moved to Wales during the war - and was a prisoner of war.
0:07:59 > 0:08:03- He worked on the farms - in the Ysbyty Ifan area.
0:08:03 > 0:08:08- This was where he met Mam, they - married and had my brother and I.
0:08:08 > 0:08:14- Dad always said that Thieme - wasn't a common name in Germany...
0:08:14 > 0:08:19- ..like the surnames of Jones, - Parry and Williams in Wales.
0:08:19 > 0:08:20- Where was he from?
0:08:20 > 0:08:23- He was from Meissen in East Germany.
0:08:23 > 0:08:27- He didn't go home - until after the Wall was taken down.
0:08:27 > 0:08:31- What was it like to see the name - on the wall a few minutes ago?
0:08:32 > 0:08:34- It was very emotional.
0:08:35 > 0:08:36- You had no idea about it.
0:08:36 > 0:08:38- You had no idea about it.- - No, not a clue.
0:08:38 > 0:08:44- It was emotional to come here in the - first place as I'm half German...
0:08:44 > 0:08:49- ..but I never thought that I would - feel this emotional about it.
0:08:49 > 0:08:51- It's memorable.
0:08:51 > 0:08:53- It's memorable.- - Yes, I'll never forget it.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56- That one second - will stay with you for life.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00- You never know what's going - to happen on these types of trips.
0:09:00 > 0:09:03- Yes, and memories of Dad - flooded back too.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21- If I ask you about Hedd Wyn...
0:09:21 > 0:09:24- ..how does his name - resonate in Flanders...
0:09:25 > 0:09:27- ..and amongst - your people living here?
0:09:27 > 0:09:31- For the people all around, - they know who Hedd Wyn is...
0:09:31 > 0:09:35- ..as you have his plate, - the Welsh memorial and so on.
0:09:35 > 0:09:38- For younger people, - or the people from Belgium...
0:09:39 > 0:09:43- ..we don't consider Hedd Wyn - as a very important person...
0:09:43 > 0:09:48- ..but we consider the intervention - of the Welsh as very important.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52- I explain that you have - the Welsh memorial on this place...
0:09:52 > 0:09:55- ..where Hedd Wyn, on 31 July, - was killed.
0:09:55 > 0:10:00- It was that part of the Front Line - in the Battle of Passchendaele...
0:10:00 > 0:10:02- ..which was taken by the Welsh.
0:10:02 > 0:10:07- Hedd Wyn is the example - of the Welsh intervention...
0:10:07 > 0:10:11- ..and Welsh presence over there - which is very important.
0:10:31 > 0:10:37- The contrast between the Langemark - and Tyne Cot cemeteries is striking.
0:10:37 > 0:10:41- This is the resting place - of 12,000 Commonwealth soldiers.
0:10:41 > 0:10:44- It hosts the first event - on the choir's tour.
0:10:55 > 0:10:57- Tyne Cot Cemetery...
0:10:57 > 0:11:01- ..is worlds away from - Bangor Rugby Club where we last met.
0:11:02 > 0:11:03- Yes, it is.
0:11:03 > 0:11:08- It's a very sombre place - with so many graves.
0:11:09 > 0:11:10- It's horrific.
0:11:11 > 0:11:17- What will you remember about this - first event on the choir's tour?
0:11:17 > 0:11:21- It was very poignant and - a lot of the choir got emotional...
0:11:22 > 0:11:26- ..after visiting - the various locations this morning.
0:11:26 > 0:11:29- They got emotional after singing.
0:11:29 > 0:11:35- The songs, especially Gwahoddiad, - stirred up an array of emotions.
0:11:36 > 0:11:40- # All hail! atoning blood!
0:11:40 > 0:11:44- # All hail! redeeming grace!
0:11:44 > 0:11:49- # All hail! - the gift of Christ our Lord
0:11:49 > 0:11:54- # Our Strength and Righteousness #
0:11:54 > 0:11:58- After many weeks of rehearsals, - Sian and Tonwen...
0:11:58 > 0:12:01- ..this is the choir's - first memorable event...
0:12:02 > 0:12:04- ..to officially start your tour.
0:12:04 > 0:12:06- Yes, it's incredibly memorable.
0:12:07 > 0:12:10- I'd never been - to Tyne Cot Cemetery before...
0:12:10 > 0:12:13- ..and being here - is something I'll never forget.
0:12:14 > 0:12:15- It's incredible.
0:12:15 > 0:12:20- It feels very peaceful - which is an odd thing to say...
0:12:21 > 0:12:26- ..but the thousands - who are commemorated at this site...
0:12:27 > 0:12:32- ..reminds us that the purpose - of this war was to end all wars.
0:12:32 > 0:12:36- Humankind has forgotten that - but we have to try and remember it.
0:12:37 > 0:12:41- Nothing prepares you - for the sheer size of the place.
0:12:41 > 0:12:43- It's enormous!
0:12:43 > 0:12:47- Thousands upon thousands of soldiers - are buried here.
0:12:47 > 0:12:51- It's a very emotional start - to this tour.
0:12:52 > 0:12:56- # A-a-a-men
0:12:56 > 0:13:01- # A-a-a-men
0:13:01 > 0:13:07- # A-a-a-men #
0:13:08 > 0:13:08- .
0:13:12 > 0:13:12- Subtitles
0:13:12 > 0:13:14- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:13:18 > 0:13:21- Welcome back - to this special edition of Heno...
0:13:22 > 0:13:25- ..where we follow - the North Wales Rugby Choir.
0:13:25 > 0:13:27- They are in Flanders in Belgium...
0:13:28 > 0:13:33- ..to mark the centenary of the start - of the Battle of Passchendaele.
0:13:43 > 0:13:46- The author, Sian Rees - is in the choir.
0:13:46 > 0:13:51- Her novel, Hafan Deg is based - on her grandfather's experiences.
0:13:51 > 0:13:54- He fought - in the Battle of Passchendaele.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02- It's lovely to rest - for a few minutes, Sian.
0:14:03 > 0:14:04- Yes, and to relax.
0:14:04 > 0:14:08- It's an incredibly busy few days - for the choir.
0:14:08 > 0:14:10- Yes, we're very busy.
0:14:10 > 0:14:14- Everyone has their own reason - for being here...
0:14:14 > 0:14:17- ..and your story is exceptional.
0:14:17 > 0:14:20- My personal reason for being here...
0:14:20 > 0:14:24- ..is that my grandfather - fought in this particular battle.
0:14:24 > 0:14:30- I've come here to honour - those memories that I have of him.
0:14:30 > 0:14:32- He came home alive.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34- His name was Burt Hinder.
0:14:34 > 0:14:39- He was from a mining family from - New Tredegar in the Gwent Valley.
0:14:39 > 0:14:43- I tried to trace - my grandfather's history.
0:14:44 > 0:14:47- He was an illegitimate child - in Cardiff...
0:14:47 > 0:14:51- ..and was adopted - by the Hinder family...
0:14:52 > 0:14:55- ..in the mining valleys - of South-East Wales.
0:14:55 > 0:14:58- He enlisted in the army.
0:14:58 > 0:15:02- At that time, Rhyl was one - of the important centres...
0:15:02 > 0:15:05- ..for training lads for World War I.
0:15:05 > 0:15:10- This is where he met my grandmother - and they got married.
0:15:10 > 0:15:16- This was a month or so before - he left Rhyl for France in 1915.
0:15:17 > 0:15:19- He fought - in the Battle of Mametz Wood...
0:15:20 > 0:15:23- ..and the battle - we're here to commemorate...
0:15:23 > 0:15:28- ..namely the Third Battle of Ypres - or the Battle of Passchendaele.
0:15:28 > 0:15:30- This is a photograph of Burt Hinder.
0:15:30 > 0:15:34- It's lovely that someone - has written on the back.
0:15:34 > 0:15:37- It says "Taid Rhyl, amser rhyfel"...
0:15:38 > 0:15:41- ..with the date of 19 April 1918.
0:15:41 > 0:15:45- The story of your grandfather, - Burt Hinder...
0:15:45 > 0:15:49- ..is a common story - amongst hundreds of Welsh families.
0:15:49 > 0:15:54- You've gone a step further and - enjoyed learning about his story.
0:15:55 > 0:15:58- Yes, it has been - a pleasurable experience.
0:15:58 > 0:16:03- He died when I was 20 - but I have clear memories of him...
0:16:03 > 0:16:08- ..as a short, gentle, white-haired - man who told terrible jokes...
0:16:08 > 0:16:11- ..and gave me a sixpence - every Saturday morning.
0:16:11 > 0:16:13- Those are my memories of him.
0:16:13 > 0:16:19- I had always been aware that - he was a soldier in World War I.
0:16:19 > 0:16:21- It wasn't until - I had my own children...
0:16:22 > 0:16:25- ..that I realized I needed - to find out more about him...
0:16:26 > 0:16:31- ..and build a bigger picture - of the person that he was.
0:16:39 > 0:16:45- All the classic cars completed the - journey from Swansea to Langemark.
0:16:46 > 0:16:51- It's the end of your journey and all - the cars have arrived in one piece.
0:16:51 > 0:16:53- Yes, that's right.
0:16:53 > 0:16:57- It's quite emotional - to reach the grave of Hedd Wyn.
0:16:57 > 0:17:02- This is the first time - that I've seen the grave.
0:17:02 > 0:17:06- It's my first visit to the area - so it's very emotional.
0:17:06 > 0:17:12- We're all delighted that - every car has arrived in one piece.
0:17:14 > 0:17:16- These classic cars...
0:17:17 > 0:17:22- ..bring joy - but also help people to remember.
0:17:22 > 0:17:27- Yes, and many were worried - about the cars getting this far.
0:17:27 > 0:17:30- Thankfully, they have all arrived.
0:17:36 > 0:17:38- You've reached your destination.
0:17:38 > 0:17:42- Both you and the Austin - have arrived safely.
0:17:43 > 0:17:45- Did the car cope with the journey?
0:17:45 > 0:17:48- Yes, and I didn't have any problems.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50- Tell us about the car.
0:17:50 > 0:17:54- I've been a fan of the Austin cars - since 1968.
0:17:55 > 0:17:59- I had my first Austin - in January 1968...
0:17:59 > 0:18:05- ..so that was about 48 years ago!
0:18:05 > 0:18:11- It's 100 years since Hedd Wyn - was injured and killed here...
0:18:11 > 0:18:16- ..so this day and your trip - is very significant.
0:18:17 > 0:18:20- Yes, it is.
0:18:20 > 0:18:25- There's something about it - that takes your breath away.
0:18:30 > 0:18:34- The Artillery Wood Cemetery - houses the grave of Hedd Wyn.
0:18:35 > 0:18:37- It's one of those places - in Flanders...
0:18:38 > 0:18:42- ..that reminds us why this poet - and shepherd from Trawsfynydd...
0:18:42 > 0:18:47- ..represents the losses - of a whole generation.
0:18:51 > 0:18:53- This is Hedd Wyn's grave.
0:18:53 > 0:18:57- Hundreds of people will flock here - in the coming days.
0:18:57 > 0:18:59- A lot of people visit this spot.
0:18:59 > 0:19:01- Yes, it's a place of pilgrimage.
0:19:02 > 0:19:08- He's commemorated here - and at his home in Trawsfynydd.
0:19:08 > 0:19:12- This new book has the great title - of Traws-0lwg.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16- It is part of the commemoration - in Flanders and at home.
0:19:17 > 0:19:22- The Friends of Yr Ysgwrn - was established over two years ago.
0:19:22 > 0:19:28- Many things are being held all year - to mark the centenary of this event.
0:19:28 > 0:19:34- One of those events - is the publication of this book.
0:19:35 > 0:19:38- Everyone who has visited - Trawsfynydd...
0:19:38 > 0:19:41- ..is familiar with - its statue of Hedd Wyn.
0:19:41 > 0:19:46- It's interesting to see a photograph - of its unveiling in 1923.
0:19:47 > 0:19:49- It's an important record.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52- Yes, and a crowd gathered - for the unveiling.
0:19:53 > 0:19:58- People were interested - in commemorating him.
0:19:58 > 0:20:01- It's important - to remember this man...
0:20:01 > 0:20:06- ..who is an icon and represents the - Welsh who died in this horrific war.
0:20:15 > 0:20:19- On day two of the - North Wales Rugby Choir's tour...
0:20:19 > 0:20:24- ..they performed in Langemark Church - with Rhys Meirion and Dylan Cernyw.
0:20:25 > 0:20:29- This church was totally destroyed - during the Great War.
0:20:41 > 0:20:45- If Rhys Meirion - had a musical home in Flanders...
0:20:45 > 0:20:48- ..then it's the church in Langemark.
0:20:48 > 0:20:50- You've performed here many times.
0:20:50 > 0:20:54- I had the honour - of being here three years ago...
0:20:54 > 0:20:59- ..for the unveiling of the memorial - at Pilckem Ridge and I sang here.
0:20:59 > 0:21:02- It's wonderful - and has incredible acoustics.
0:21:02 > 0:21:08- # Immolatum
0:21:09 > 0:21:12- # In cruce
0:21:12 > 0:21:15- # In cruce
0:21:16 > 0:21:22- # Pro homine #
0:21:23 > 0:21:26- This church - is like a second home to Rhys...
0:21:26 > 0:21:29- ..and the same is true for you, - Dylan.
0:21:29 > 0:21:35- Yes, and it's lovely to be back - and to be with Rhys and the choir.
0:21:35 > 0:21:38- We've performed together a lot - so we're like family.
0:21:39 > 0:21:44- I know that some of the songs - are quite sentimental...
0:21:45 > 0:21:50- ..but we're all there to support one - another and enjoy the experience.
0:21:50 > 0:21:54- I know you'll have - another memorable evening here.
0:21:55 > 0:22:00- # I wish
0:22:00 > 0:22:06- # My loved ones
0:22:06 > 0:22:10- # The blessing
0:22:10 > 0:22:18- # God brings #
0:22:19 > 0:22:21- APPLAUSE
0:22:26 > 0:22:27- .
0:22:33 > 0:22:33- Subtitles
0:22:33 > 0:22:35- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:22:35 > 0:22:36- Subtitles
0:22:39 > 0:22:44- Welcome back to a special edition - of Heno from Flanders in Belgium.
0:22:44 > 0:22:47- It's a century since - the Battle of Passchendaele...
0:22:47 > 0:22:51- ..one of the most brutal - conflicts of the Great War.
0:22:59 > 0:23:04- As dawn broke, exactly a century - since the first day of battle...
0:23:04 > 0:23:08- ..there was a ceremony - to remember Passchendaele...
0:23:08 > 0:23:12- ..at the memorial that honours - all the Welsh who fell in Flanders.
0:23:13 > 0:23:14- Fire!
0:23:26 > 0:23:31- You mentioned in the final choir - rehearsal before coming here...
0:23:31 > 0:23:35- ..that you were looking forward - to this ceremony at daybreak...
0:23:35 > 0:23:38- ..at the Welsh memorial.
0:23:39 > 0:23:44- The event has just finished and for - me, it exceeded all expectations.
0:23:44 > 0:23:49- Yes, I didn't expect - this kind of atmosphere.
0:23:49 > 0:23:53- It started seconds - after the break of dawn.
0:23:53 > 0:23:57- They timed the ceremony perfectly.
0:23:57 > 0:24:02- We remembered Hedd Wyn - and the other Welsh soldiers...
0:24:03 > 0:24:07- ..but also the armies - from the other Celtic nations...
0:24:07 > 0:24:10- ..who fought in this battle.
0:24:10 > 0:24:13- We paid tribute to them...
0:24:14 > 0:24:17- ..with excerpts - and quotes from soldiers...
0:24:17 > 0:24:22- ..pieces of music - and solo performances.
0:24:22 > 0:24:28- We also had the pipers - and a large gun was fired.
0:24:28 > 0:24:31- It was an original gun - from the First World War.
0:24:32 > 0:24:36- It was fired to remember - the thousands of lives lost.
0:24:36 > 0:24:39- It's left an impression on me.
0:24:39 > 0:24:42- # THE LAST POST #
0:24:50 > 0:24:52- "We can hear death's roar
0:24:52 > 0:24:56- "It shadows the hovels of the poor
0:24:57 > 0:25:00- "Like the old songs they left behind
0:25:00 > 0:25:03- "We hung our harps - in the willows again
0:25:03 > 0:25:06- "Ballads of the boys - blow on the wind
0:25:06 > 0:25:10- "Their blood - is mingled with the rain."
0:25:14 > 0:25:18- The second event of the day - was a service at Hedd Wyn's grave.
0:25:18 > 0:25:22- The service at Artillery Wood - Cemetery has just finished...
0:25:23 > 0:25:26- ..where you recited Rhyfel - by Hedd Wyn.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29- It's one of his most famous poems.
0:25:29 > 0:25:34- Yes, and it felt quite emotive...
0:25:34 > 0:25:38- ..to read the words of the poet...
0:25:38 > 0:25:40- ..at the site of his death.
0:25:40 > 0:25:43- It feels quite symbolic.
0:25:44 > 0:25:48- These individuals - had lived their lives...
0:25:48 > 0:25:52- ..in such peace and harmony...
0:25:53 > 0:25:56- ..before it was - torn apart in the war.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58- It's incredibly sad...
0:25:58 > 0:26:01- ..but it's important - that we remember them.
0:26:01 > 0:26:07- # The poet heavy under foreign earth
0:26:07 > 0:26:13- # The hands - that will never part again
0:26:14 > 0:26:20- # The eyes thick - beneath a thick door
0:26:20 > 0:26:27- # The eyes that cannot open #
0:26:28 > 0:26:33- Hagebos, or Iron Cross - is where Hedd Wyn fell.
0:26:33 > 0:26:37- The place has now become a shrine - to remember him.
0:26:38 > 0:26:43- # Trawsfynydd! Over its rocks
0:26:44 > 0:26:49- # You travelled - on the bare hills of Snowdon
0:26:50 > 0:26:56- # You roamed through the bracken
0:26:57 > 0:27:05- # But fell asleep far from it #
0:27:07 > 0:27:13- It's 25 years since the first plaque - was unveiled in honour of Hedd Wyn.
0:27:13 > 0:27:15- The second plaque is unveiled today.
0:27:15 > 0:27:17- It's quite a significant day.
0:27:18 > 0:27:21- It's a very emotional day for me.
0:27:22 > 0:27:27- Hedd Wyn is that connection - between Flanders and Wales.
0:27:27 > 0:27:32- There's a special relationship - between Wales and Trawsfynydd...
0:27:32 > 0:27:35- ..and the people of Flanders.
0:27:35 > 0:27:41- We have a lot of alliances in Wales.
0:27:41 > 0:27:47- Many people from Hagebos - have travelled to Wales...
0:27:47 > 0:27:51- ..and there have been - many people from Wales...
0:27:52 > 0:27:55- ..who have visited Flanders.
0:27:55 > 0:27:58- It's a very close bond - and friendship.
0:27:58 > 0:28:00- Yes, it is.
0:28:00 > 0:28:04- The bond is stronger - than ever today.
0:28:09 > 0:28:13- A plaque to observe a century - since Hedd Wyn's death...
0:28:13 > 0:28:16- ..was donated by - the North Wales Rugby Choir...
0:28:17 > 0:28:20- ..and unveiled by the - Archdruid Geraint Llifon.
0:28:20 > 0:28:25- Singing his songs - like he did at Yr Ysgwrn.
0:28:26 > 0:28:30- The role of an Archdruid - comes with several honours...
0:28:30 > 0:28:36- ..but today's ceremony and unveiling - has to be the biggest honour of all.
0:28:36 > 0:28:42- Nobody else has been given - a greater honour...
0:28:43 > 0:28:45- ..of unveiling this memorial.
0:28:45 > 0:28:51- It represents the rural, - agricultural life...
0:28:51 > 0:28:54- ..that was part of Hedd Wyn.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57- It's basically a trough...
0:28:57 > 0:29:02- ..that was used to store - drinking water for animals.
0:29:02 > 0:29:04- Horses drank from it...
0:29:04 > 0:29:09- ..and it was taken - from the land at Yr Ysgwrn...
0:29:09 > 0:29:13- ..the home of Hedd Wyn's farm.
0:29:14 > 0:29:20- This represents the agricultural - and rural aspect...
0:29:20 > 0:29:22- ..of everything I unveiled.
0:29:23 > 0:29:26- The quote at Penbedw Eisteddfod - from a century ago...
0:29:27 > 0:29:30- ..is "the festival in tears, - the poet in his grave."
0:29:31 > 0:29:32- It's completely true.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35- Those words remain with us today.
0:29:35 > 0:29:37- You're completely right.
0:29:37 > 0:29:41- If only I was there.
0:29:42 > 0:29:45- We've only got - second-hand information of events.
0:29:46 > 0:29:51- I wish I was able - to go back in time...
0:29:52 > 0:29:54- ..and be a fly on the wall...
0:29:54 > 0:29:58- ..and experience - those exact moments for myself...
0:29:59 > 0:30:01- ..but that isn't going to happen.
0:30:10 > 0:30:14- There are so many people here - with their memories...
0:30:14 > 0:30:19- ..and reasons for coming here on - the centenary of Hedd Wyn's death.
0:30:19 > 0:30:23- You've also got an astonishing story - to share with us.
0:30:23 > 0:30:29- My grandfather was with Hedd Wyn - when he died.
0:30:29 > 0:30:34- I heard the story from my mother.
0:30:34 > 0:30:38- My grandfather's friend - was from Blaenau Ffestiniog.
0:30:38 > 0:30:40- He fought in the war and survived.
0:30:41 > 0:30:46- He visited my grandmother after - the war and told her what happened.
0:30:46 > 0:30:50- Someone had ordered the regiment...
0:30:50 > 0:30:54- ..to manoeuvre towards an area - over the hillside.
0:30:54 > 0:30:58- There was a dozen soldiers, - including Hedd Wyn...
0:30:58 > 0:31:02- ..soldiers from Blaenau, Penygroes - and my grandfather...
0:31:03 > 0:31:05- ..as well as six or seven others.
0:31:05 > 0:31:11- Both Hedd Wyn - and my grandfather were wounded...
0:31:11 > 0:31:16- ..but my grandfather - survived for four days...
0:31:16 > 0:31:18- ..after Hedd Wyn died.
0:31:18 > 0:31:24- He was taken to the field hospital - where he passed away.
0:31:24 > 0:31:29- What does it feel like to see - these crowds remembering Hedd Wyn?
0:31:29 > 0:31:32- I'm delighted to see so many people.
0:31:32 > 0:31:36- We have to remember those - who fought for their country...
0:31:36 > 0:31:38- ..and lost their lives.
0:31:39 > 0:31:42- It's been difficult - for families over the years...
0:31:42 > 0:31:48- ..like my grandmother - who was widowed with young children.
0:31:48 > 0:31:53- She struggled through life and - it's important for us to remember.
0:31:56 > 0:32:00- Marc Decaestecker from Langemark - is a true friend of the Welsh.
0:32:01 > 0:32:04- He's the owner of a cafe - near Iron Cross...
0:32:04 > 0:32:08- ..with a museum to remember - the sacrifice of the Welsh.
0:32:17 > 0:32:23- Marc, this room in your cafe is - a small piece of Wales in Flanders.
0:32:23 > 0:32:27- Today, we've just seen - the new memorial for Hedd Wyn.
0:32:27 > 0:32:30- It was outside your cafe - and what an event.
0:32:31 > 0:32:34- It was a huge event - and very emotional.
0:32:34 > 0:32:38- The choir was singing - and there was a lot of people.
0:32:38 > 0:32:40- Yes, it was beautiful.
0:32:40 > 0:32:43- Hedd Wyn's name and his story...
0:32:43 > 0:32:47- ..is so important to you - and your neighbours here.
0:32:48 > 0:32:50- Why is that?
0:32:50 > 0:32:55- Hedd Wyn represents...
0:32:55 > 0:33:00- ..all the Welsh soldiers and the - Welsh involvement in the first war.
0:33:01 > 0:33:04- You've kept the memory alive.
0:33:04 > 0:33:08- I've kept the memory alive and - we will still keep the memory alive.
0:33:22 > 0:33:22- .
0:33:30 > 0:33:30- Subtitles
0:33:30 > 0:33:32- Subtitles- - Subtitles
0:33:36 > 0:33:39- Welcome back - to this special edition of Heno.
0:33:39 > 0:33:44- I'm in Ypres to mark 100 years - since the Battle of Passchendaele.
0:33:44 > 0:33:47- The newspaper published - on the day of the centenary...
0:33:48 > 0:33:53- ..has the headline of "De Hel - Herdacht" or Remembering Hell!
0:34:05 > 0:34:10- The Welsh event to mark the start - of the Battle of Passchendaele...
0:34:10 > 0:34:14- ..was at the Welsh Memorial Park - and led by Roy Noble.
0:34:14 > 0:34:19- The First Minister, Carwyn Jones and - Prince Charles were also present.
0:34:19 > 0:34:25- Sir Deian Hopkin put the Battle of - Passchendaele into context for me.
0:34:31 > 0:34:33- It's 100 years to the day...
0:34:33 > 0:34:38- ..since the first blows were struck - in the Battle of Passchendaele.
0:34:38 > 0:34:43- Many historians claim there wasn't - a military reason for this battle.
0:34:43 > 0:34:46- Is this historically true?
0:34:46 > 0:34:50- There's a historic argument - for everything.
0:34:50 > 0:34:51- In this case...
0:34:52 > 0:34:56- ..people thought this war - would last for many years.
0:34:56 > 0:35:00- Many predicted - it would last another five years.
0:35:00 > 0:35:05- They decided to have - one major campaign...
0:35:05 > 0:35:07- ..and this is what they chose to do.
0:35:07 > 0:35:09- The weather was the main issue.
0:35:10 > 0:35:14- Who knows what would have happened - if the weather had been dry?!
0:35:14 > 0:35:17- Passchendaele is remembered - for being a sea of mud.
0:35:18 > 0:35:22- Tanks struggled and soldiers drowned - if they weren't killed.
0:35:22 > 0:35:26- It was a military disaster - as hardly any land was won.
0:35:27 > 0:35:32- It showed that this type of fighting - wasn't effective.
0:35:32 > 0:35:36- Hedd Wyn became the Welsh symbol - of this tragedy.
0:35:37 > 0:35:40- There are two symbols - from the events of Passchendaele.
0:35:41 > 0:35:45- We mourn Hedd Wyn's death - and the loss of so much talent.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50- Who knows what Hedd Wyn would - have written had he survived?!
0:35:50 > 0:35:53- The world lost so much talent.
0:35:54 > 0:35:56- Hedd Wyn is a symbol of that loss.
0:35:56 > 0:36:01- We must also remember - that the regiment in this battle...
0:36:01 > 0:36:07- ..was the same regiment that lost - many soldiers in Mametz in 1916...
0:36:07 > 0:36:10- ..where they were - harshly criticized.
0:36:10 > 0:36:14- Nobody criticized the 38th - at Passchendaele.
0:36:14 > 0:36:18- You could argue that - their reputation has been restored.
0:36:19 > 0:36:25- Today's event is being held in - the sunshine and under blue skies.
0:36:25 > 0:36:30- Today's weather isn't indicative - of the events from 100 years ago.
0:36:31 > 0:36:32- The weather is much better.
0:36:33 > 0:36:36- This is - the Welsh National Memorial Park.
0:36:37 > 0:36:41- This is the result of - the diligence of various people...
0:36:41 > 0:36:47- ..in terms of societies, individuals - in Wales and this community.
0:36:47 > 0:36:53- This will be an important site of - remembrance for many years to come.
0:36:53 > 0:36:55- It's easy to get here.
0:36:55 > 0:36:58- You can admire this landscape...
0:36:58 > 0:37:02- ..and think about - the various military campaigns...
0:37:03 > 0:37:07- ..that took place - during the whole of the Great War.
0:37:07 > 0:37:10- This is a memorial for everybody...
0:37:10 > 0:37:15- ..and not just those lost - in the Battle of Passchendaele.
0:37:25 > 0:37:29- There's an international feel - to this area, Carwyn Jones...
0:37:29 > 0:37:33- ..but this afternoon's event - also has a Welsh flavour.
0:37:33 > 0:37:35- Yes, that's correct.
0:37:35 > 0:37:40- Langemark hosts a service - every month to remember Hedd Wyn...
0:37:40 > 0:37:43- ..and everything that happened here.
0:37:43 > 0:37:45- There's also the Welsh memorial.
0:37:45 > 0:37:51- Today, it's important - to focus on Wales at these events.
0:37:52 > 0:37:57- How important is this day in terms - of the recent years of remembrance?
0:37:57 > 0:37:59- It's incredibly important.
0:37:59 > 0:38:03- Today marks the start of the battle - where Hedd Wyn was killed.
0:38:04 > 0:38:10- Hedd Wyn spoke out about his - experiences of the First World War.
0:38:10 > 0:38:15- He represents - all of those fallen soldiers.
0:38:16 > 0:38:20- What will be your standout memory - of today's event?
0:38:20 > 0:38:22- I've been here twice before.
0:38:22 > 0:38:26- Each time I visit, - I see some incredible sights.
0:38:26 > 0:38:30- You see the graves where - these soldiers have been buried...
0:38:30 > 0:38:34- ..but you also see - names on memorial walls...
0:38:34 > 0:38:40- ..to honour those soldiers - whose bodies were never found.
0:38:40 > 0:38:44- There's about 34,000 names - at the Tyne Cot Cemetery....
0:38:45 > 0:38:48- ..and 53,000 on the Menin Gate.
0:38:48 > 0:38:53- It means that we know the identity - of those soldiers on the walls...
0:38:54 > 0:38:58- ..but many graves read "A Soldier - of The Great War, Known Unto God. "
0:38:58 > 0:39:01- It's important to commemorate...
0:39:02 > 0:39:07- ..but remember Europe was at war - and we never want to see that again.
0:39:14 > 0:39:17- Chris Coleman, - what a fantastic day for you.
0:39:17 > 0:39:19- Yes, what an experience.
0:39:19 > 0:39:23- It's not my first time here - as we've been before.
0:39:23 > 0:39:28- The reason why we're here and the - atmosphere and seeing people here...
0:39:28 > 0:39:32- ..is fitting for the special people - who fell here during the war.
0:39:32 > 0:39:35- It's great to be back - and I enjoyed it.
0:39:35 > 0:39:40- You came here, you brought the Welsh - squad here and they wanted to come.
0:39:40 > 0:39:45- There's a huge link with the - Welsh men and women who fell here...
0:39:45 > 0:39:49- ..and a lot of football players - who played at the time.
0:39:50 > 0:39:52- They wanted to see Flanders...
0:39:52 > 0:39:57- ..so we brought them here after - the campaign game against Belgium.
0:39:57 > 0:40:00- It was the 2016 campaign.
0:40:00 > 0:40:02- It was an incredible experience.
0:40:02 > 0:40:06- You said on the podium, - "Together. Stronger."
0:40:06 > 0:40:09- Yes, team play is the best play.
0:40:09 > 0:40:13- We've got Gareth Bale and Aaron - Ramsey who are great players...
0:40:13 > 0:40:17- ..but the secret of our success - is that we are very together.
0:40:18 > 0:40:21- It's an incredibly strong, - together group.
0:40:21 > 0:40:24- That's why I think these boys - will go on and do better.
0:40:24 > 0:40:28- And more memories - stored from this visit today.
0:40:28 > 0:40:30- This won't be my last visit.
0:40:30 > 0:40:34- There's a huge connection - and I like coming back.
0:40:34 > 0:40:38- This is my third of fourth time - but I enjoyed the day...
0:40:38 > 0:40:41- ..and was honoured - to be invited here today.
0:40:41 > 0:40:44- # For Wales our land
0:40:44 > 0:40:49- # O Father hear our prayer
0:40:50 > 0:40:53- # His blessed vineyard
0:40:54 > 0:40:58- # Granted to our care #
0:40:59 > 0:41:01- I spoke to Chris Coleman...
0:41:01 > 0:41:06- ..so must talk to Ian Gwyn Hughes - as you manage him at these events.
0:41:06 > 0:41:09- Yes, and he keeps me busy - as he's popular at the moment.
0:41:10 > 0:41:14- Before we came here, we had - a quiet coffee and meal in Ypres.
0:41:15 > 0:41:17- There was a bus from Anglesey.
0:41:17 > 0:41:20- That quiet town - was overrun with the Welsh...
0:41:20 > 0:41:24- ..wanting photographs - and autographs from Chris.
0:41:24 > 0:41:25- On a serious note...
0:41:26 > 0:41:31- ..your grandfather, Reverend Lewis - Valentine, was mentioned many times.
0:41:31 > 0:41:34- Dros Gymru'n Gwlad - was also performed.
0:41:34 > 0:41:38- Once again, - his name was heard in Flanders.
0:41:38 > 0:41:44- Yes, Roy Noble recited the words - of Lewis Valentine...
0:41:44 > 0:41:46- ..and spoke about the hymn...
0:41:46 > 0:41:49- ..and I knew - what was going to follow.
0:41:49 > 0:41:52- I was at the rehearsal - this morning.
0:41:52 > 0:41:58- The program said that the choir - was singing Dros Gymru'n Gwlad...
0:41:58 > 0:42:02- ..so I knew that it was going to be - an emotional afternoon.
0:42:02 > 0:42:07- I was sitting there when Roy - started talking about the prayer...
0:42:07 > 0:42:10- ..and my grandfather, - Lewis Valentine...
0:42:10 > 0:42:13- ..who was injured - out here 100 years ago.
0:42:13 > 0:42:17- It really moved me.
0:42:17 > 0:42:22- There was also the hymn with - its fantastic lyrics and melody.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25- I found it incredibly emotional...
0:42:25 > 0:42:30- ..during the whole service but - especially during those parts of it.
0:42:30 > 0:42:33- # A-men
0:42:33 > 0:42:40- # A-a-men #
0:42:42 > 0:42:47- The day's closing service - was at the Menin Gate in Ypres...
0:42:47 > 0:42:52- ..where the trumpets play The Last - Post at 8.00pm every evening...
0:42:52 > 0:42:55- ..to remember all those lost - in The Great War.
0:42:55 > 0:42:57- # THE LAST POST #
0:43:04 > 0:43:05- Alwyn and Glena Bevan.
0:43:05 > 0:43:09- A number of members - of the Rugby Choir have told me...
0:43:09 > 0:43:13- ..that this tour would not have - happened if it wasn't for you two.
0:43:14 > 0:43:18- There's no better place to finish - than at the Menin Gate.
0:43:18 > 0:43:20- Yes, exactly.
0:43:20 > 0:43:26- There's the poor lads who thought - coming here would be like a holiday.
0:43:26 > 0:43:28- They didn't get to go home.
0:43:29 > 0:43:32- It was 100 years ago...
0:43:33 > 0:43:35- ..when men like Hedd Wyn - came here to fight.
0:43:36 > 0:43:41- It never crossed his mind - that he wouldn't go home.
0:43:41 > 0:43:45- Thank you for letting us - join you on this trip, Glena.
0:43:45 > 0:43:47- Alwyn, behind every great woman...
0:43:47 > 0:43:48- Alwyn, behind every great woman...- - ..there's a great man!
0:43:49 > 0:43:51- You can finish the sentence.
0:43:51 > 0:43:52- Thank you very much.
0:43:54 > 0:44:00- # That I bore his name with pride
0:44:00 > 0:44:03- # As I tried
0:44:04 > 0:44:08- # To remember
0:44:10 > 0:44:15- # You are judged by what you do
0:44:15 > 0:44:21- # While passing through #
0:44:22 > 0:44:26- You've had another - four events today, Rhys...
0:44:26 > 0:44:31- ..and we were up before the larks - in Flanders for an early start.
0:44:31 > 0:44:33- It was an incredible experience...
0:44:34 > 0:44:38- ..to be on that spot at the exact - time when the first gun was fired.
0:44:39 > 0:44:44- It's something I will never forget - and I'm so grateful to be here.
0:44:44 > 0:44:50- The Menin Gate is an incredible - place to bring this tour to an end.
0:44:50 > 0:44:54- One specific song epitomizes - this whole experience for you...
0:44:55 > 0:44:57- ..and that's Tell My Father.
0:44:57 > 0:45:00- Yes, and it's a real honour - to be here.
0:45:02 > 0:45:07- # Tell me we will meet again
0:45:07 > 0:45:11- # Where the angels
0:45:11 > 0:45:15- # Learn to fly
0:45:17 > 0:45:21- # Tell him we will meet as men
0:45:21 > 0:45:25- # For with honour
0:45:25 > 0:45:31- # Did I die
0:45:33 > 0:45:38- # Tell him how I wore the blue
0:45:39 > 0:45:42- # Proud and true
0:45:42 > 0:45:47- # Like he taught me
0:45:49 > 0:45:55- # Tell my father not to cry
0:45:57 > 0:46:00- # Then say
0:46:00 > 0:46:09- # Goodbye #
0:46:18 > 0:46:20- S4C Subtitles by Tinopolis
0:46:20 > 0:46:21- .