“Fallen heroes” is more than just a phrase. The Eternal Flame Sculpture at New Scotland Yard stands as a testament to those heroes within the UK’s police force.
This eternal flame resembles all of the fallen heroes. It sits outside The New Scotland Yard building on the Victoria Embankment. But what makes this flame so special?
The main contractor, BAM, approached a company for the design. They wanted the manufacture, installation, and commissioning of the eternal flame. The company felt extremely honored. They were given the opportunity to work on such a meaningful project.
The company had designed and manufactured many bespoke decorative flames. This project was different. It was exciting and meaningful. The schedule was short. The flame needed to stay alight. It had to withstand all weather conditions.
The burner was successfully fitted in 2016. The new building was unveiled in 2017. Maintenance visits occurred during the flame’s first year. This kept an eye on how the flame would hold up. It now withstands wind, rain, and snow.
Eternal flames have a long history. They signify enduring commitment. They often commemorate a person or event of national significance. Some flames are natural. Natural gas leaks or coal seam fires can cause them. Others are intentionally ignited and tended.
In ancient times, wood or olive oil fueled these flames. Modern flames use propane or natural gas. Many cultures and religions have eternal fire traditions. Ancient Iran tended the atar. A dedicated priest did this. It represented divine sparks.
The Jewish Temple in Jerusalem required a continuously burning fire. Modern Judaism has a similar tradition. A sanctuary lamp always lights above the ark in synagogues. After World War II, these flames gained further meaning. They reminded people of the six million Jews killed in the Holocaust.
Many eternal flames have been extinguished throughout history. The Sacred fire of Vesta in Ancient Rome was extinguished in 394 AD. The eternal flame near the Bronze Soldier of Tallinn in Estonia was extinguished after the country gained independence from the USSR in 1991.
Today, many man-made eternal flames exist in Europe. Brussels has one at the foot of the Congress Column. Sarajevo has the Sarajevo eternal flame. It is in memory of the military and civilian victims of the Second World War.
London also hosts another eternal flame. A cluster of war memorials in an east London industrial site features one. These are the WWI and WWII memorials. They honor people who worked at the nearby Gas Light and Coke Company. They died during the wars. The plaques on either side list the names of the dead. Sadly, the originals were stolen in 2007.
So, as you gaze upon The Eternal Flame Sculpture, remember its significance. It is a symbol of remembrance. It is a tribute to those who served. It is a light that never fades.