The Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour, located within the Scottish National War Memorial, is a solemn tribute to the Scottish service personnel and civilians who have made the ultimate sacrifice in various conflicts since 1914. This comprehensive memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the immense sacrifices made by the people of Scotland in the pursuit of peace and freedom.
Overview of the Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour
The Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour is a remarkable monument that stands as a testament to the resilience and bravery of the Scottish people. Situated within the iconic Edinburgh Castle, this memorial commemorates the lives of over 147,000 individuals who perished during the First World War, and an additional 50,000 who lost their lives in the Second World War, with further names added from subsequent conflicts.
Visiting the Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour
Visitors to the Edinburgh Castle can explore the Scottish National War Memorial, which houses the Roll of Honour. The memorial is open daily, but it’s important to note that it may be closed for specific services on certain dates in 2024, such as Saturday, 24th February; Thursday, 25th April; Wednesday, 29th May; Wednesday, 5th June; and Monday, 11th November.
To visit the memorial, visitors can opt for the “Memorial only” entry, which is free of charge. However, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Searching the Roll of Honour
The Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour offers an online search facility, allowing visitors to search for the names of their loved ones who have made the ultimate sacrifice. This feature enables individuals to find the details of their family members or friends who are commemorated on the memorial.
In addition to the online search, visitors can also purchase certificates that commemorate the casualties listed on the Roll of Honour, providing a tangible way to honor their memory.
The Scope of the Roll of Honour
The Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour is a comprehensive record that includes the names of Scots servicemen and women from all Armed Services, Dominions, Merchant Navy, Women’s Services, Nursing Services, and civilian casualties of all wars from 1914 to the present day.
The memorial covers a wide range of conflicts, including the First World War (1914-1921), the Second World War (1939-1947), the Malayan Emergency, the Korean War, Operation Banner, the Falklands War, the Gulf War, and the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Artistic and Architectural Significance
The Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour is not only a solemn tribute to the fallen but also a work of art and architectural significance. The memorial features sculptures, stained glass, and other works created by renowned Scottish artists and craftspeople, including Pilkington Jackson, John Marshall, Phyllis Bone, and Douglas Strachan.
The attention to detail and the incorporation of Scottish artistic elements add to the memorial’s cultural and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the country’s rich heritage and the sacrifices made by its people.
Maintenance and Preservation
The Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour is maintained by a charitable trust and supported by Historic Environment Scotland. This ensures that the memorial is well-preserved and continues to serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the people of Scotland.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does “F & F” stand for in the context of the Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour?
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F & F stands for France and Flanders, the main British theatre of operations during the First World War.
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Why might a name be missing from the Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour?
- There are errors and omissions from the Rolls of Honour due to record-keeping limitations over 100 years ago, but names are still being added through the course of history.
The Edinburgh Castle War Memorial Roll of Honour stands as a powerful symbol of the enduring spirit and resilience of the Scottish people. It serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of Scots in the pursuit of peace and freedom, and it continues to inspire visitors from around the world to reflect on the true cost of war and the importance of honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scottish_National_War_Memorial
- https://www.snwm.org
- https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/see-and-do/highlights/scottish-national-war-memorial
- https://www.ramcassociation.org.uk/remembrance/turning-the-pages-2
- https://www.snwm.org/roll-search/