A long-overdue tribute is finally taking shape for the unsung heroes of the Royal Navy's Coastal Forces, the brave souls who played a pivotal role in defending our shores during World War I and II. But here's where it gets controversial: despite their crucial contributions, these men and women have never received the recognition they deserve.
Amy Goodman, an artist renowned for her sculptures of iconic figures like Queen Elizabeth II and rock legends Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, is now immortalizing the Coastal Forces in a powerful new monument. The sculpture, standing tall at 13.1 feet, will feature a motor gun boat hull with two crew members, a testament to the daring and skill of these young volunteers.
Richard Farrington, a trustee at the Coastal Forces Heritage Trust and a former Commodore himself, describes the crews as "remarkable." He emphasizes the challenges they faced, navigating at high speeds in the dark without modern GPS, relying solely on their instincts and a stopwatch. "They were ordinary people doing extraordinary things," he says.
The monument, currently under construction at the Elephant Boatyard in Southampton, aims to capture the spirit and bravery of these sailors. It depicts Lt Cdr Robert Hichens and a signaller on the bow of a scaled-down MGB 77, the boat he commanded. But the story doesn't end there. Organizers also plan to install a figure of a member of the Women's Royal Naval Service, signaling back across the pavement, a powerful symbol of the diverse roles played by these coastal defenders.
Fundraising efforts continue, with the hope of installing the monument next year at the entrance to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. This project is a chance to right a historical wrong and ensure these heroes are never forgotten.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the sculpture itself, but the stories it tells and the conversations it sparks. So, what do you think? Is this monument a fitting tribute to the Coastal Forces? Or is there more we can do to honor their legacy? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
