Leeds Unveils Memorial Garden to Honour Caribbean RAF Veterans from WWII

A new memorial garden has been unveiled in Leeds to honour the brave Caribbean RAF veterans who served during World War Two. This special garden is a tribute to those who settled in Leeds after the war, recognising their sacrifices and contributions to the community.

Memorial Garden Unveiling Event

The Jamaica Society Leeds (JSL) held a significant unveiling ceremony for the Caribbean World War Two RAF Veterans’ Memorial Garden on May 8. The garden is located outside the Society’s offices at Jamaica House in Chapeltown, Leeds. This event was specially organised to pay tribute to the veterans, with a plaque featuring the names of 49 veterans being revealed.

Over 40 relatives of the veterans were expected to attend this heartfelt gathering, alongside special guests, including His Excellency Alexander Williams, the Jamaican High Commissioner to the UK. Family members and RAF cadets participated in a roll call, reading out the names of the veterans, which also acknowledged those who remain unnamed.

Honouring the Legacy

The Jamaica Society Leeds has worked closely with families and the local community since 2019 to compile the list of veterans for the plaque. The city’s last surviving Caribbean World War Two veteran, Alford Gardner, passed away in 2024, making this memorial even more significant for the families involved.

The unveiling was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony and a moving rendition of The Last Post performed by Melvin Zakers from the New World Steel Orchestra. This addition brought a solemn yet celebratory atmosphere to the occasion.

Exhibition Celebrating Veterans

In addition to the memorial unveiling, a pop-up version of the Society’s For King, Country & Home exhibition was showcased during the event. This exhibition was originally displayed at the Leeds Central Library in 2023 and highlighted the lives and contributions of Caribbean veterans in the RAF during the war.

Voices of Remembrance

Wendy Henry, Chair of Jamaica Society Leeds, expressed the significance of the memorial garden, stating:

“Caribbean WW2 RAF veterans who made Leeds their home were true pioneers to whom the city and the UK owe a great deal.”

She highlighted how these veterans not only served their country during the war but also played vital roles in rebuilding post-war Leeds and fostering community relations.

Yvonne English, widow of Hubert 'Glen' English MBE and one of the founders of the Jamaica Society Leeds, shared her emotions about the memorial:

“It is an honour for us to be able to pay our respects with a dedicated space in memory of Caribbean veterans.”

Yvonne reflected on her late husband's journey, noting how he left behind his studies to serve in a war far from home.

Barbara Goodison, daughter of another veteran, Astley 'Tommy' Roy Thomas, also shared her thoughts:

“It’s just wonderful to see the veterans, including my father, remembered in such a meaningful way after all these years.”

She expressed gratitude for the recognition that the veterans had not always received for their service.

Support for the Memorial

The creation of the Caribbean WW2 RAF Veterans’ Memorial Garden was made possible through generous funding and support from various organisations. Key contributors included Unity Housing, Wade’s Charity, and the University of Leeds’s YPIP Grant support, along with the backing of Leeds City Council’s Parks & Countryside and numerous community donations.

The unveiling event was by invitation only, but plans are underway for future activities and events around the memorial garden to continue honouring the veterans and their contributions.

A Lasting Tribute

This memorial garden stands as a lasting tribute to the Caribbean RAF veterans who fought bravely during World War Two and later made Leeds their home. It serves as a reminder of their sacrifices and the important roles they played in shaping the community. With the unveiling of the garden and plaque, the stories of these veterans will be preserved and celebrated for generations to come.