Naval Service Memorial unveiled
On Sunday, 15th June at the National Memorial Arboretum, the Naval Service Memorial was unveiled by HRH Prince Michael of Kent.
The dedication ceremony, which included a fly-past by the Fleet Air Arm, was also attended by the HRH Princess Michael of Kent, the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Minister of State for the Armed Forces, First Sea Lord, Second Sea Lord and members of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Naval Association (RNA) and members of the Conference of Naval Associations including the Merchant Navy Association. A Royal Marine Band and Guard will parade.
The RNA commissioned Graeme Mitcheson to design the Naval Service Memorial to mark the 60th Anniversary of its Royal Charter. The memorial is all-inclusive and commemorates those who have served, serve today and will serve tomorrowregardless of rank, trade or fighting arm. It is a very modern design that combines sculpture with large coloured glass sails.
The memorial is in the Naval Section of the National Memorial Arboretum and is a place for shipmates and their families of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, their Reserves, RFA, RMAS, QARNNS, WRNS and RNXS quietly to remember their comrades and loved ones.
HRH Prince Michael of Kent said: “It is fitting, that this memorial embodies that profound sense of duty while paying tribute to all those in the Naval Service, regardless of rank, trade or fighting Arm. The Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, the Royal Naval and Royal Marine Reserves, the Women’s Royal Naval Service, Queen Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing Service, the Royal Naval Auxiliary Service and the Royal Fleet Auxiliary are therefore all represented in this memorial, which draws our attention to the sacrifices made by all those in the Naval Service family past, present and future.”
Vice Admiral John McAnally, President of the Royal Naval Association commented: “This impressive memorial is a poignant and fitting tribute to those who have served and are serving our country on the world’s oceans in war and peace and also to those waiting at home for their safe return.”
“This striking design breaks with tradition, whilst incorporating the essence of the sea in all its moods. We are immensely proud of the timelessness of Graeme Mitcheson’s design.”
BFBS radio broadcast of event.