The Royal Naval Association, the biggest collective group of Royal Naval veterans and serving personnel in the UK, is launching an appeal to raise £75,000 to preserve the stunning Naval Service Memorial (NSM) at the National Memorial Arboretum (NMA) and is calling on the wider Naval family and the public to support this vital appeal.
The monument, unveiled 12 years ago, stands as a powerful tribute to the service and sacrifice of the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and associated services. It now requires a combination of essential repair work and long-term maintenance planning to ensure its continued preservation. Part of this is to ensure the unique and stunning glass panes seals are updated to withstand wear and tear of the Staffordshire weather.
Sadly, one of the Memorial’s glass panes has developed water ingress at its upper edge. To prevent further deterioration and to protect the structure as a whole, remedial work is required to repair the affected pane and to install protective seals across all panes.
Alongside this work, appropriate arrangements for the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the Memorial are essential to ensure it remains in a fitting condition for all who visit, both now and in the future.
Andy Christie, National President of the Royal Naval Association, said:
“The Naval Service Memorial is more than stone and glass — it is a place of reflection, remembrance, and pride for all who have served, and for their families. We have a responsibility to ensure it remains in the condition it deserves. This is about protecting our shared Naval heritage and ensuring future generations can stand here and remember those who served before them.”
We believe many people might be unaware of these challenges or may simply have forgotten just how remarkable the Naval Service Memorial is. We strongly encourage all those with an interest in Naval history, service, and remembrance to visit the National Memorial Arboretum near Burton, Staffordshire, and see the Memorial for themselves.
Any contribution, large or small, will help ensure the Naval Service Memorial remains a fitting and dignified place of remembrance for all future visitors.
All donations are gratefully received, follow this link: Naval Service Memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum – JustGiving
Once Navy, Always Navy.
