A group of us gathered at the National Memorial Arboretum for a very special service of dedication in the chapel followed by the unveiling and dedication of the WCCSA memorial. The memorial consists of a tree and a bench, on the bench is a plaque bearing our crest and these words “The Worshipful Company of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators. In recognition of service with integrity by members of the Company in war and peace.”

As the Master said, our Livery Company started 40 years ago, and those who founded it served with distinction in the forces during the two World Wars and went on to serve with integrity in many walks of life.. She ended her introduction with these words about the memorial:

“A tree to symbolise all that is best in life, and a bench to rest on while reflecting on past and future”

Those of us who attended felt proud, honoured and deeply touched to be present on such a unique and poignant occasion in the Livery’s history. The memorial is in a beautiful and very special place and we are deeply grateful to the Master (a local girl) for her tenacity in initiating and driving this fitting memorial.

For anyone who was unable to attend I would encourage you to visit the NMA, sit awhile on the bench in the shade of the tree, and follow the Master’s suggestion to reflect. In the peace of that place I’m sure you will feel quiet pride and immense gratitude to those who founded our great Livery.

Ruth Boys
Liveryman

UPDATE! 5 February 2020

I was at the NMA on Saturday 1 February and went to see the tree and bench. The tree is budding and looking  healthy, and the bench is ageing well!

Ruth

 

Photos courtesy of Professor Mark Fox.