What does this sculpture mean? The Witness War memorial is more than just art. It is a potent symbol of remembrance. It commemorates the immense sacrifices made by Londoners during times of conflict.
The London Troops War Memorial stands proudly in front of the Royal Exchange. The location is just outside Bank tube station. This memorial column has buttress plinths. They are constructed from Portland stone blocks. The blocks have elaborate architectural moulded decoration. A bronze lion rampant holding a shield tops the main column. The shield shows the regimental crest.
A carved coat of arms adorns the front of the column below the upper moulding. The central panel on the front of the column shows dedication to the men who fell. This was during the 1914 to 1919 and 1939 to 1945 wars. A list of the London regiments involved in both conflicts is on the rear of the column. This is within the central panel. The inscriptions on the front use applied raised lead lettering. The inscriptions on the rear are on lead. They are set into the stone.
Standing life-size infantry figures in bronze are on the buttress plinths. They are to either side of the main column. The base of each bronze figure is surrounded by a shallow lead gutter. It drains into the main body of the column. Bronze wreath hooks embossed with crossed rifles are around the base of the column. A bronze plaque with a moulded edge also exists at this level. It acknowledges the money raised by public subscription for the memorial.
The London Troops War Memorial specifically commemorates the men of London. They fought in World War I and World War II. Alfred Drury designed the bronze figures. Sir Aston Webb was the architect. The memorial was unveiled on November 12, 1920. The Duke of York did the unveiling. He represented the Duke of Connaught.
Inscriptions on the memorial pay immortal honour to the officers and men of London. They served their King and Empire in the Great War of 1914 to 1919. The memorial is dedicated in proud and grateful recognition by the City and County of London. Their name lives forevermore.
Even though many units named on the memorial have changed in designation and role, we honor and remember the men and women who served in all the units of the City and County of London in the War of 1939 to 1945.
A brass plaque states the memorial was raised by public subscription. It happened at the Mansion House in the peace year 1919. This was during the mayoralty of Sir Horace Brooks Marshall.
Today the London Troops War Memorial remains a powerful reminder. It honors those who served. It is a place for reflection. This ensures their sacrifices are never forgotten.