999 memorial is symbol of the nation’s gratitude

UNVEILING the 999 Cenotaph is a proud moment for all those who have been a part of the amazing 250-year history of the emergency services. At this time of crisis it also stands as the coronavirus memorial for those dedicated public servants on the frontline who have given their lives to save others.

The Daily Express is honoured to partner this magnificent memorial designed by Philip Jackson, who also designed the extraordinary Bomber Command memorial in London’s Green Park which was backed by this newspaper and its army of loyal readers who donated £2million towards it.

You could ask why it has taken so much time for there to be a true national memorial to our emergency services.

The 250 years of history have seen more than 7,000 heroes give their lives. There have been countless acts of selflessness and courage from our police, firefighters and ambulance personnel among others.

Met Police Special Sergeant Thomas Scholes-Fogg, the founder and chair of the National Emergency Services Memorial Charity, summed up the need for the £3.2million bronze monument perfectly.

He said: “This monument will be a national symbol of gratitude, sacrifice and remembrance.”

It also, as he says, stands as testament to the virtue of duty that drives every man and woman who has given service.

It seems very appropriate that Prince William should be associated with this endeavour as someone who has served with the coastguard and the air ambulance. He knows all too well the dedication that marks out these brave people.

Rarely in the modern era have we been more keenly aware of the importance of our emergency services and frontline as at this time of the coronavirus pandemic.