This concept originated during the 1914-1918 War, proposed by Second Lieutenant Douglas Gillespie in his letters home. He envisioned a path tracing the ‘Line of Engagement’—the front line stretching from Switzerland to Belgium’s coast. Historian Sir Anthony Seldon, known for his political insights, discovered this idea in the archives of Wellington College during his tenure as headmaster and was captivated by its potential.
During the pandemic, Sir Seldon undertook a journey along this route, documented in his 2022 book, “The Path of Peace.” Collaborating with Rotarians and Rotary Clubs in France, this concept could be transformed into a long-distance footpath and cycling route. This initiative requires departmental cooperation, necessitating collaboration between French and British Rotarians under the Anglo-French ICC/CIP.
The Belgian government has already embraced the plan, installing ‘Western Front Way’ signs. With determination, we aim to replicate this in France. The completed path will span nearly 1,000 kilometers, serving as a poignant memorial to all who fought.