The Memorial is quite simple, 2 large columns on each side of Constitution Hill, a small cupola or pavilion – rather similar to the Chattri Memorial - and 2 stone slabs. The four columns are inscribed rather simply with the names of the major countries and a quotation from Ben Okri (of Nigerian descent): 'Our Future is Greater than our Past'. The stone slabs are inscribed with the major theatres of conflict Commonwealth troops were involved in. Inside the cupola are listed the names of Indian servicemen who were awarded the George and Victoria Crosses. We were both struck by the mix of Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Christian names of all those who had fought for Britain and the Commonwealth. All mortal and all fellow human beings at the end of the day.
On Remembrance Sunday the cupola was brightened by a number of wreaths. Looking closely we could see the names of the donors of the wreaths. They included the Indian High Commission, the Punjab Frontier Force, the South African Defence Force and others whose provenance we could not clearly identify.
We walked 50 yards up to the Bomber Command Memorial which was a much more imposing stone monument opened in 2012. We spent some time reading the personal stories, and the names of the wreath donors. There were many veterans and later some cadets arrived to pay their respects. Close to Buckingham Palace in Green Park we passed the Canadian Memorial and realised we had only just missed a memorial ceremony as park staff were clearing away.
We were both sad that there were relatively few wreaths at the Memorial Gates. Where were the flowers from other Indian regiments that had fought in both World Wars? Many regiments can trace their origin to British Indian forces and were sent to fight on behalf of the Empire. In addition, my understanding from the Indian High Commission is that there was no ceremony on Remembrance Sunday to commemorate their war dead. I was quite surprised to learn this. I know that in India fallen servicemen are remembered on Republic Day but it would be appropriate to mark Remembrance Day in London like many other Commonwealth countries including Australia and New Zealand. I wonder whether Indians are aware of the sacrifices their forefathers made in theatres from North Africa, to Monte Cassino to Burma amongst others.
On Remembrance Sunday and today, we remember all those who have died in wars, from whatever nationality and on all sides. We remember those who died too young, the families and relatives of those who died, who remember them with a mixture of sadness, grief, anger and pride.
We shall never forget.
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