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Unveiling of Sculpture for 80th Ann of D-Day
04/06/2024 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
A rather special invitation has landed 
To commemorate the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, a sculpture called ‘Hail and Farewell’, is being unveiled on the banks of the Beaulieu River in honour of the women and families who had to endure the anxiety of separation and the grief and loss of the D-Day campaign, both civilians and those who served, specifically those in the WRNS. You will note from the attached project brief and sketch, that the old WRNS insignia flies from the stern of the sculpture.
The sculpture sits on salt marshes by the river bank on land gifted to the Time to Connect Art Trail project by Nick de Rothschild of Exbury House and Gardens. The unveiling event promises famous faces, poetry and a ceremonial ‘Toss Oars’ from an RN Gig on the river rowed by serving personnel, with the salute being taken (hopefully) by Cdre Catherine Jordan and a couple of Centenarian Wrens. It will be followed by a reception. Specific details to follow IDC.
Exbury House and the Beaulieu River have a special significance to D-Day. In 1942 Exbury House became HMS Mastadon and the WRNS took on key roles in the planning and the training for the Normandy Landings. Nick de Rothschild is keen to have former Wrens present on the day and host them at a reception after the unveiling.
Please note that there is quite a bit of walking to do from the Palais des Vaches in Exbury to the river bank and back. We expect there to be a lot of interest so please contact Veronica ([email protected]) soonest if you would like to attend
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