Lloyd’s unveils memorials to honour its war heroes

Lloyd’s, the world’s leading specialist insurance market, today held a special service to dedicate and unveil two new Lloyd’s War Memorials which commemorate its associates who lost their lives during the First and Second World Wars.

The memorials, which were unveiled by Lloyd’s Chairman, Lord Levene, and His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester KG GCVO, list the names of the 434 men associated with Lloyd’s who died in combat during the two World Wars.

Housed in the newly refurbished original façade of the 1928 Building on Leadenhall Street, the memorials also pay tribute to those who contributed to the protection of Lloyd’s, and the surrounding areas, during both conflicts.

The ceremony began at 11.00 with the ringing of Lloyd’s iconic Lutine Bell and was followed by parades from the Navy, Army and the Air Force, the Band of the Blues and Royals, the State Trumpeters and the Pikemen and Musketeers. After the unveiling, a dedication and a blessing were the given by The Right Reverend & Right Honourable The Lord Bishop of London.

The ceremony was attended by over 1,000 people including representatives from the Lloyd’s market and Corporation past and present, as well as relatives of some of the war heroes who worked at the insurance market and lost their lives during the two wars.

Speaking at the unveiling, Lord Levene said:

“It is an honour to commemorate the names of those who gave their lives in both World Wars, protecting our freedom and our heritage, in two new memorials.

“There were also countless other men and women whose bravery and dedication on the home front ensured that the market continues today. These selfless acts should never be forgotten.

“But sadly, as we know today, the days of war are not over, and we are still protected by the brave men and women of our armed services who put their lives at risk everyday in Iraq and Afghanistan. So this occasion is also an opportunity to reflect on their sacrifice and pay tribute to them,” Lord Levene said.

In June, Lloyd’s launched an appeal to trace the relatives and friends of Lloyd’s war heroes listed on the memorials so that they could attend the event. It also launched a new website www.lloyds.com/warmemorial dedicated to those who served at Lloyd’s during both wars.

“Meeting the relatives and friends of those on the memorial brought home the role that Lloyd’s men played in the wars and the bravery they showed. It came as no surprise that many men were mentioned in despatches, received medals for gallantry, distinguished service, Military Crosses and the Victoria Cross,” Levene said.