Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) is proud to announce the launch of the Heart of Oak Memory Tree, a poignant new memorial placed in the heart of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
Inspired by “Heart of Oak,” the official march of the Royal Navy, the tree’s striking design has been created and built by BAE Systems, with installation support from KBS Maritime and in collaboration with the Portsmouth Historic Quarter.
Standing tall and crafted from Royal Navy ship’s steel, the Heart of Oak Memory Tree will serve as a lasting tribute to those who have shaped the Royal Navy community, recognising individual service & sacrifice in a place of significant Royal Navy heritage – located near HMS Victory, the Mary Rose Museum and close to the working Royal Naval Dockyard.
Every leaf on the Heart of Oak Memory Tree holds a life remembered. Whether (fallen) they died in action, passed away in service, or are remembered as veterans or family members of those who served, the Heart of Oak Memory Tree stands as a powerful symbol of the enduring spirit and resilience of our naval family.
Glynn Phillips, Managing Director, BAE Systems Maritime and Land:
“BAE Systems has worked closely with the RNRMC for almost two decades and we’re proud to support their vital work with sailors, marines and their families.
“It is a privilege for us to have designed and built this memory tree which will provide a lasting tribute to those who have served and further enable the charity’s work.”
James Davis, Managing Director, KBS Maritime, added:
“It is an honour for KBS Maritime to play a part in bringing the Heart of Oak Memory Tree to life. Ensuring its installation at the heart of Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is not only a privilege for our team, but also an important contribution to honouring Royal Navy heritage. We are proud that our expertise can support a memorial that will stand for generations, safeguarding the stories and sacrifices of the Royal Navy community.”
The Heart of Oak Memory Tree has removable, metal leaves, each engraved with the name of someone being remembered by family and friends creating a tribute to their life and a recognition of their service. Supporters can dedicate a leaf through a donation to RNRMC, helping to raise vital funds for the charity’s work with serving personnel, veterans, and their families.
In addition, an interactive microsite with a virtual version of the Heart of Oak Memory Tree will enable supporters to view the personalised leaves, photographs of those commemorated, and personal messages ensuring tributes can be viewed from anywhere in the world.
Sam Nicolson MBE, interim CEO, Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity said:
“Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity Heart of Oak Memory Tree is a collaboration rooted in gratitude and remembrance, and a shared effort to recognise and remember individuals who have contributed to the Royal Navy family and service. It offers a lasting way to honour and celebrate loved ones, giving thanks for their service and sacrifice in a place rich with Royal Navy history, while ensuring their legacy endures by supporting today’s serving personnel, veterans, and their families.”
Register your interest today to be among the first to dedicate a leaf in memory of someone special: https://www.rnrmc.org.uk/appeal/heart-oak.
