QARNNS NATIONAL ARBORETUM MEMORIAL

A Memorable Day.

Only 22 months after our visit to the NMA for the QARNNS Association AGM we were back there in July to unveil and dedicate the magnificent new Memorial stone and benches.  The day dawned bright and clear and the trees in National Memorial Arboretum fluttered gently in the cooling breeze.

Sadly, our Royal Patron HRH Princess Alexandra who was to perform the unveiling was suddenly indisposed therefore unable to be with us.  Sir James Hawley, Lord- Lieutenant of Staffordshire deputised for Her Royal Highness who sent her apologies and best wishes for the day.

After being welcomed by Mrs Ellen Seward Association Chairman the 120 guests saw Sir James unveil the inscribed stone and two curved benches.  Mrs Sue Pyke read a passage from Ecclesiasticus and Rev. Angela Johnson, Chaplain to the Association lead the prayers. Short readings on significant happenings in QARNNS from the 1880’s to today were given by PONN Leftly, Mrs Jean Bailey, Mrs Maggie Freer and Lt. Scott.  

The Venerable John Green Chaplain of the Fleet dedicated the memorial and PONN Gilbert lead the Act of Remembrance.  We were privileged to have 2 Royal Marine Buglers to sound the Last Post and Reveille.

On completion of the ceremony Captain Helen Allkins, Matron-in-Chief, introduced Mr Chris Emery the Stonemason to the official party as guests made their way through the avenues of oaks to the marquee where lunch was served.  Sir James and Lady Hawley spent the afternoon meeting serving and retired QARNNS and their families. 

On behalf of the Service and the Association, Captain Allkins and Mrs Seward would like to thank everyone who contributed in any way to the raising of the funds, the support of serving colleagues on the day, the stonemason for his wonderful work and the staff of the National Memorial Arboretum for enabling this event to take place.