Bradford receives the British Commonwealth’s second war memorial

The first Commonwealth war memorial outside London has been unveiled in Bradford.

Troops from former British colonies who fought in the First and Second World Wars were honored at the monument on Wednesday.

It has been placed next to the Bradford Cenotaph and “will provide a lasting tribute to the bravery of Commonwealth soldiers and provide a space for reflection and unity”.

The Mayor of Bradford, Councilor Bev Mullaney, led the ceremony, along with Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire Ed Anderson, a representative of the Commonwealth office and a war veteran.

Mullaney said: “This is incredibly important for us as a city and district to recognize and commemorate the service and sacrifice of those who contributed to the British war effort from Commonwealth countries.”

Councilor Joanne Dodds, Bradford Council’s Armed Forces Champion, added: “This is an important day for Bradford as we unveil the first Commonwealth war memorial outside London.

“It will be an important space for all communities to come together in our memorial garden and remember the sacrifices made by Commonwealth countries during the world wars.”

‘Diverse heritage’

Bradford Council said the unveiling was in line with the city’s designation as a City of Culture.

Dr. Saira Ali, the landscape architect who designed the monument, said: “Creating this monument was an honor. We wanted to design a space that not only reflects the deep respect we have for Commonwealth troops, but also serves as a place of peace and tranquility. reminder for everyone.

“It reinforces our commitment to remembering and uniting communities around shared sacrifices.

“The Memorial Garden in which it stands provides a tranquil, reflective environment, where the beauty of nature complements the solemnity of the monument”

The ceremony was attended by veterans including Mirza Khan, 102, who served in the Indian Army during the Second World War, and Jack Crawford, 101, who grew up in Jamaica but joined the British Armed Forces and was based in Filey, North Yorkshire .

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