National Memorial Arboretum

We’re honoured to share a few early glimpses from a truly special and emotional day—the unveiling of our new memorial stone at the National Memorial Arboretum.

The opening address was given by Mrs Gerry Manolas, Chair of the MAFCSV, and conducted by The Venerable Dr. (Air Vice-Marshal) Giles Legood, Chaplain-in-Chief of the Royal Air Force.

The unveiling was performed by Mr. John Polak and Mrs Ann Cornes, bringing to life a project originally envisioned by the late John Kolbert, (Honorary Secretary of the Association of Czechoslovak Legionaries Abroad.) Thirteen years from the initial idea, and six years since the MAFCSV promised to deliver it. Finally mission accomplished.

Wreaths were laid by distinguished guests:

The Lord-Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Sir Ian Dudson, K.C.V.O., C.B.E.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Cheshire, Lady Redmond, M.B.E

The Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey, Mr. More-Molyneux

The Czech Ambassador, Her Excellency Mrs. Chatardová

The Ambassador of Slovak Republic H.E Peter Susko

The British Ambassador, to Slovakia His Excellency Mr. Baker, O.B.E., C.V.O.

The Army Representative, Colonel Dodd V.R.

The Royal Air Force Representative, Group Captain Jordan R.A.F.

The Marquess of Cholmondeley’s Representative, Ms. Baker

The Veterans’ Families Representative, Mrs. Novak

The ‘Winton Trains’, the Czechoslovak Kindertransport, Representative, Lady Grenfell-Baines, M.B.E.

The Chair, Association of Czech and Slovak Schools in the UK, Mrs. Nahodilová

The Chair, MAFCSV, Mrs Gerry Manolas

The Last post was played beautifully by Ruth Moore, who always plays for us at Brookwood. Martin Pavlis paraded the veteran’s standard.

At the reception afterwards, Mrs Gerry Manolas presented two bespoke fused glass poppies to The Czech Ambassador, Her Excellency Mrs. Chatardová and The British Ambassador to Slovakia His Excellency Mr. Baker, O.B.E., C.V.O. to thank them both for all the work they have done to promote the memory of the veterans. The poppies were created by talented glass artist, Chris Boase King.

To every supporter, friend, and family member of the MAFCSV: thank you. This once-in-a-generation memorial stands because of your unwavering commitment. And to our Executive Team—you made this vision a reality.