African and Caribbean War Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids African and Caribbean War Memorial |
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| United Kingdom | |
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| For servicemen from Africa and the Caribbean who served alongside British and Commonwealth Forces in First World War and Second World War | |
| Unveiled | 22 June 2017 |
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The African and Caribbean War Memorial in Brixton, London, is a special monument in the United Kingdom. It honors the brave soldiers and service people from Africa and the Caribbean who fought in the First World War and Second World War.
This memorial started as an idea to remember Caribbean Royal Air Force veterans from World War II. Many of these veterans arrived in Britain in 1948 on a ship called the MV Empire Windrush. The project grew to include all African and Caribbean service members from both World Wars. It was finally set up and officially revealed on 22 June 2017 in Windrush Square, Brixton.
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Why This Memorial Is Important
For a long time, there wasn't a specific memorial in the UK to honor the more than two million service members from the Caribbean and Africa. These brave men and women played a huge part in helping Britain and its allies win both World Wars. The African and Caribbean War Memorial was created to make sure their important contributions are remembered and celebrated.
Where Is the Memorial?
The memorial is located in Windrush Square in the heart of Brixton, South London. This area was chosen because it has strong links to African and Caribbean culture and history.
Many people from the Caribbean, including former service members, arrived in the UK on the MV Empire Windrush on 22 June 1948. They first landed at Tilbury, near London, and many later settled in Brixton. This makes Windrush Square a very meaningful place for the memorial.
The memorial was first shown temporarily on 11 November 2014, during an Armistice Day ceremony. This event marked 100 years since the start of World War I.
What Does the Memorial Look Like?
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The African and Caribbean War Memorial was designed by Jak Beula. It has two tall, stone pillars called obelisks. They are made from a strong stone called Scottish whinstone and are about 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall.
On these obelisks, you can read the names of every regiment (military group) from Africa and the Caribbean that served in World War I and II. It also tells you where and when they served. The obelisks stand on a stone base made of Ancaster stone.
Many groups helped make this memorial possible, including Lambeth Council, the Department of Communities and Local Government, and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Its Official Unveiling
After being stored for a few years, the memorial was finally installed permanently on 22 June 2017. A special ceremony was held to officially reveal and dedicate it.
Important people spoke at the event. Queen Elizabeth II sent a letter of support, saying it was important to remember the "ultimate sacrifice" made by these men and women. The Prince of Wales (now King Charles III) also spoke earlier about the "remarkable contribution" of people of African and Caribbean descent to the UK.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by war veterans, important officials, and members of the public. Jak Beula, the designer, said that the memorial helps correct a "historical omission" and ensures young people know about their ancestors' valuable role in the wars.
The Voice newspaper reported that the ceremony included music from military bands, steel orchestras, and African and Caribbean drummers. There were also prayers from different faiths. Medals were given to former service members who had made amazing contributions.
Some of the brave individuals honored with medals included Alhaji Grunshi, Walter Tull, Sam King, and Allan Wilmot. Ninety-three-year-old veteran Allan Wilmot was there to receive his medal and said he was "glad that I'm still alive to witness it."
The Defence Secretary, Michael Fallon, said that this recognition was "long overdue." The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, also spoke, saying it's "vital that we pass this on to future generations, connecting children with their history."
See Also
Images for kids
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The African and Caribbean War Memorial in Brixton.
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A closer look at the memorial's design.
