Bomber Command memorial unveiled

[Paul K]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18600871

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/history/raf- ... oured.html

Nothing more can be said, except maybe...at last.

[speedbird591]

Hi Paul. I've just finished watching the recording of the BBC's coverage of the unveiling ceremony. I found it very moving and thought that they'd got the balance just right.

The family of Teddy, my father's cousin, had invited me to join them there in recognition of the website I'd created for him. But much as I would have liked to be there, I felt it should be for veterans and immediate family. I'll go and spend some time there later on.

As you say, it's about time, but finally they have a fitting memorial. It really is magnificent.

Ian

[Paul K]

What a shame you were unable to attend, Ian. Yes it certainly is magnificent, and I too am looking forward to visiting it very soon.

[FlyTexas]

That's a beautiful memorial. Heroes all.

Brian

[Garry Russell]

Very fitting...I didn't think the applause very enthusiastic but due dignity was shown throughout.

They were so young, but seeing them now shows how long over due this was.

A very nice statue too

Nice to have somewhere to stand and say "Thank You"

[Swanoir]

Nice to have somewhere to stand and say "Thank You"

Absolutely. I very much look forward to having the opportunity to pay a visit myself, and to take my kids and help them to understand the gravity of what these selfless and brave young men tried to achieve.

[Swanoir]

Sorry, that came out wrong, sounds disrespectful. I didn't mean tried to achieve, I meant did.

[Paul K]

Sorry, that came out wrong, sounds disrespectful. I didn't mean tried to achieve, I meant did.

Not disrespectful at all, mate. From reading Max Hastings' Bomber Command, many of them died just in the trying, and never had the chance to achieve much. But, as you say, they tried.

[Garry Russell]

With Paul on that

It is after all the reality, the trying and sacrifice that allowed a few to get through and finish the job

Those that tried so hard yet did not live to see the goal are the true hero's as without them, those that did get through would not have done so.

They did not fail

[FlyTexas]

Well said Garry. And the ones who did survive. I imagine that many of them flew/fly missions every night in their sleep after the war had ended. Definitely the stuff that nightmares are made of. The world owes them a debt which we can never repay.

Brian