A poignant anchor stands before you. This is Mona’s Queen Memorial. It’s a tribute to Isle of Man sailors lost at Dunkirk. The anchor itself is the heart of Mona’s Queen Memorial. It’s the anchor from the Mona’s Queen III. This ship tragically sank during Operation Dynamo in May 1940. The anchor was recovered years later from the seabed near Dunkirk. It represents the bravery and sacrifice of those who served.
The Mona’s Queen Memorial isn’t just a somber reminder of loss. It’s also a symbol of international cooperation. French authorities readily helped recover the anchor. The Dunkirk Diving Club and Eurodive played key roles. Their willingness to assist ensured the anchor’s return to the Isle of Man. This collaboration exemplifies the enduring bonds forged during times of conflict.
The journey of this anchor is remarkable. After its recovery in 2010 a ceremony followed. The anchor was then brought to Cammell Laird in Birkenhead. This is where the Mona’s Queen III was originally built. The anchor was treated and prepared for its final journey. Finally in 2012 the anchor was placed at its current location. Kallow Point in Port St Mary was selected as the perfect site for Mona’s Queen Memorial. The location offers an open space a beautiful sea view and easy access. The anchor is positioned pointing southeast towards Dunkirk itself. This detail is symbolic of the ship’s final journey and the sacrifice of the Isle of Man sailors.
The memorial isn’t just an anchor. It includes information boards too. These boards explain the Isle of Man’s vital role in the Dunkirk evacuations. The names of the fallen are also inscribed on the memorial walls. Port St Mary residents proudly act as custodians of this memorial. They ensure its preservation and act as a beacon of remembrance. The memorial provides a quiet dignified space for reflection on those terrible days. Many Manx seafarers came from this area. That makes this location particularly fitting.
Mona’s Queen Memorial is more than a monument. It’s a testament to courage resilience and international friendship. It is a place to pause to reflect and to honor the sacrifice made during the Dunkirk evacuation. Take a moment to absorb the significance of this powerful memorial. Remember the brave souls whose lives were lost. Remember their contribution to the Dunkirk evacuation. Let Mona’s Queen Memorial stand as a poignant reminder for generations to come.