KING’S LYNN: Memorial tribute to The Fallen
Gerry Tann (King's Lynn Royal British Legion) at the war memorial in Tower Gardens, King's Lynn.
A veteran is hoping to create a memorial to the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country in the last 70 years.
Gerry Tann is trying to ensure that Lynn does not forget the debt owed to the soldiers, sailors and air personnel who have died in World War II and proceeding conflicts, including Iraq and Afghanistan.
Lynn’s current memorial in Tower Gardens contains just the names of World War I servicemen and 19 people who were killed between 1939 and 1945.
But Mr Tann believes that more than 120 Lynn people died in World War II and continuing conflicts.
He is now asking for help in compiling a definitive list of service personnel who were born in Lynn or town residents when they died.
Mr Tann’s ultimate aim is to inscribe these names onto a new wall which could be constructed between the memorial and Greyfriars Tower.
The project is even more significant as next year marks the 100th anniversary of World War I.
Mr Tann, who is a member of Lynn Royal British Legion, said: “It is important to recognise the contribution they have made to their country and their home town.
“There are various lists in various locations in the town but we are trying to work out a definitive one.
“First of all we can record the names with a view of having them put in the garden at a later date. We probably wouldn’t get it done before next year but it would be good if we could make a start before the World War I commemorations.
“It would be a great help if anyone out there could contact me with names.”
The memorial is also intended to commemorate people who were killed other conflicts such as Korea, The Gulf, Falklands, Northern Ireland and The Suez Canal Zone.
Servicemen have also been killed on peacekeeping duties in areas such as the former Yugoslavia.
West Norfolk Council leader Nick Daubney would be happy to discuss the project.
He said a decision was taken by the council in 1946 not to inscribe names onto the current memorial.
Mr Daubney said: “I am not adverse to revisiting any sensible approaches.
“I am very sensitive to remember the people from Lynn.
“I am very happy to discuss the most appropriate way to remember those people.”
If you would like to submit a name email reporter victoria.fear@jpress.co.uk
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Friday 24 May 2013
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