Hundreds of war veterans lined Leadenhall Street on Wednesday morning to witness the unveiling of two new memorials at the site of the old Lloyd’s building.
Unveiled by Lloyd’s Chairman Lord Levene and His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester, the Lloyd’s War Memorials commemorate the 434 men associated with Lloyd’s who died in combat during the two World Wars.
The memorials are housed in the newly refurbished 37ft high Lloyd’s Arch, once the main entrance to the 1928 Building on Leadenhall Street, and also pay tribute to those who contributed to the protection of Lloyd’s and the surrounding areas during both conflicts.
Audiences to the ceremony, which began at 11am with the ringing of the Lutine Bell, were greeted to parades from the Navy, Army and Air Force, the Band of the Blues and Royals, the State Trumpeters and the Pikemen and Musketeers. After the unveiling, a dedication and a blessing were the given by The Right Reverend & Right Honourable The Lord Bishop of London.
Lord Levene said: “It is an honour to commemorate the names of those who gave their lives in both World Wars, protecting our freedom and our heritage, in two new memorials.There were also countless other men and women whose bravery and dedication on the home front ensured that the [Lloyd’s] market continues today. These selfless acts should never be forgotten.”
And the Lloyd’s Chairman took time out to pay tribute to those still fighting for their country.
“The days of war are not over and we are still protected by the brave men and women of our armed services who put their lives at risk everyday in Iraq and Afghanistan. This occasion is also an opportunity to reflect on their sacrifice and pay tribute to them,” he said.
In his address, His Royal Highness added: “Today we are commemorating those who had a clear idea of what they were fighting for and why, and with great respect we should acknowledge their sacrifice.”
Earlier this month Lloyd’s launched an appeal to trace the relatives and friends of Lloyd’s war heroes listed on the memorials so they could attend the event.
Lord Levene added: “Meeting the relatives and friends of those on the memorial brought home the role that Lloyd’s men played in both the wars and the bravery they showed. It came as no surprise that many men were mentioned in despatches, received medals for gallantry, distinguished service, Military Crosses and the Victoria Cross.”
