THE daughter of a hero soldier killed in Afghanistan read her own poignant poem at one of the region’s biggest First World War centenary events today (Sunday, September 14).

Appearing at Durham Cathedral before a congregation of hundreds, Ginalee Brownson recited My Country - about life on the front line.

The occasion was especially poignant for the 14-year-old, as it came on the eve of what would have been the 34th birthday of her late father, Corporal Lee Brownson.

Cpl Brownson, from Bishop Auckland, died in January 2010 while leading a night patrol in Sangin. The father-of-three was posthumously awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross (CGC).

Speaking as she prepared for the service, Ginalee said: “I’ll be a nervous wreck but very proud, it is an important thing.”

When her moment came Ginalee delivered her lines in steady and assured tones, winning warm wishes from many people as she left the service.

She was joined by her mother Leeanne and grandmother Sharon.

Ginalee wrote the award-winning poem during a trip to the Durham Light Infantry (DLI) Museum and Art Gallery, in Durham, with Bishop Barrington School, in Bishop Auckland.

Today’s DLI Reunion and First World War Commemoration Service formed part of weekend of centenary events in the city and followed the official dedication of the DLI Memorial statue.

The Bishop of Durham, the Right Reverend Paul Butler, delivered a sermon on the theme of faithfulness, in reference to the DLI’s nickname – The Faithful.

He said: “Faithfullness to one another and faithfulness to the nation we serve were always marks of the DLI throughout its long and distinguished history .

“Faithfulness remains the mark of all our armed services today.”

He added: “The First World War was full of horrors.

“It resulted in around 13,000 former miners, farmers, shipyard workers, teachers, indeed people from all walks of life from across County Durham, being killed as they served in the DLI.

"Many more were wounded and scarred for life. On the Home Front many families lives were changed for good, as they waved off their heroes never to see them again or to receive them back as shattered men.

"Yet alongside this there are so many tales of faithfulness."

Laurence Binyon's poem For the Fallen was read by broadcaster Kate Adie, while the DLI Roll of Honour was read by Major Chris Lawton.

A Battle of Britain Evensong service was held in the afternoon.

My Country by Ginalee Brownson

I don’t want to fight, 

I want to go home,

I don’t want to be hurt,

I want to do my country proud,

I don’t want to lose the battle,

I want to conquer the task,

I don’t want to stand up tall,

I don’t want to see others hurt,

I want to be a helping hand.

I hate being wet and muddy,

I hate being tired and aching,

I love defending my country,

And keeping my family safe.

I want to help my fellow soldiers,

I want to be there for them when no-one else is,

I want them to feel supported,

I don’t want to leave them alone,

I don’t want them to feel no good,

I don’t want them to feel disappointed.

We all should be proud.