Consider for a moment the courage embodied in this Edith Cavell Bust. Princess Astrid of Belgium and Princess Anne of Great Britain unveiled it on October 12 2015. This bust commemorates a remarkable woman. Edith Cavell’s story is one of bravery and sacrifice during World War I.
Edith Cavell was born in England in 1865. She initially worked as a governess including some time here in Brussels. Later she trained as a nurse in London. In 1907, she returned to Brussels. She accepted a position at Belgium’s first nursing school. Dr. Antoine Depage founded this school. Edith became its director.
When World War I began, her hospital became a Red Cross facility. Edith treated all wounded soldiers. She did not consider their nationality. In September 1914, she began helping British soldiers escape. She became part of a network. This network smuggled Allied soldiers and Belgians to the Netherlands. About 200 people escaped through her efforts.
German authorities arrested Edith Cavell on August 5 1915. She was held in solitary confinement. The Germans found her guilty. They sentenced her to death for helping soldiers reach the enemy. Despite international appeals, the Germans executed her. The execution took place on October 12 1915. She was shot at the National Shooting Range in Schaerbeek.
Her death caused international outrage. British propaganda portrayed her as an innocent angel. She became a symbol of Allied courage. After the war, her remains were exhumed. King Albert I of Belgium attended a ceremony. Her body was repatriated to Westminster Abbey and was then reburied in Norwich Cathedral.
Edith Cavell’s last words showed her spirit. She said that patriotism is not enough. She wanted no hatred or bitterness towards anyone. This Edith Cavell Bust stands as a reminder. It embodies her compassion, courage and sacrifice. It reminds us of her dedication to helping others. It also shows her commitment to her beliefs even in the face of death. The Edith Cavell Bust serves as a symbol of bravery. It also represents hope during times of conflict.