The National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas

As remembrance day comes round again, I visit the Arboretum in Alrewas for the first time. The Arboretum is situated in the centre of England on Croxall Road, Alrewas in Staffordshire.  It's described as "a living and lasting memorial to commemorate and celebrate those who gave so much to our country". Set in 150 acres with over 150 memorials and 50,000 trees there is plenty to see. 

I wasn't sure what to expect when I visited. People spoke in hushed voices like in a cemetery but there are no bodies there so it felt a little odd to me. The arboretum reminded me of an American cemetery. I can picture the first scene of The Rock movie with Ed Harris in the rain being filmed here.

Some of the artwork there is unbelievably moving. Some of the figures even though made of metal seem so light, filled with life and emotion.

Some of the memorials are full of theatre like this RAF memorial above. "Proudly and thankfully we will remember them"

There is even a memorial for all the women spies and their efforts to fight for freedom. This one in particular resonated with me.  Edith Cavell one of our enduring heroines from World War I. Edith was a nurse who sheltered over 200 British and French soldiers in Belgium, helping them escape over the border. Discovered by Germany’s Secret Police, she was sentenced to death by firing squad. Over 100 years on, her courage continues to inspire.There are so many stories that most of the public will never know, and more hurtful are not interested in knowing. Will future generations know the  true meaning of fighting for our own freedom and appreciate what the earlier generations have done in order for us to be able to live how we do now? Or will they be a generation of takers until nothing's left?

The arboretum is set within a semi tranquil landscape. I say semi tranquil as on one side it's surrounded by wildlife but on the other side by a mine. This is the same mine which donated the land for the arboretum.The land on which the arboretum is on used to be gravel and sand pits.

They even have a defensive pill box used in World War II which you can go into. Pill boxes were situated along waterways of England. They were look out posts to be used in the event of German invasion.

Even though the arboretum is focused on the past modern technologies help keep this history alive. 

The Alrewas Arboretum is open 9am-5pm and is managed mainly by a large body of passionate and enthusiastic volunteers.