Blitz 1991
‘BLITZ’ 1991′ is a sculpture that speaks to the courage and sacrifice of the firefighters who lost their lives during the Second World War. The sculpture by British sculptor John W. Mills served as the National Memorial to these brave individuals who risked their lives to save others during one of the most challenging periods in human history.
Winston Churchill referred to these firefighters as “the heroes with grimy faces,” and it is clear that Mills’ sculpture seeks to capture the essence of that statement. The small bronze maquette that served as the basis for the memorial was commissioned by C.T. Demarne O.B.E., a former Chief Officer of the West Ham Fire Brigade, as a personal tribute to his fallen colleagues.
The memorial is a powerful and moving work of art, with exceptional detail and a profound sense of emotion. The bronze figures are frozen in action, evoking the bravery and determination of those who worked tirelessly to save lives and protect their communities during the war. The central figure of a firefighter, hose in hand, stands against a backdrop of smoke and rubble, while two other figures – a woman and a child – huddle close to his side.
As a symbol of sacrifice and resilience, ‘BLITZ’ serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those who fought to protect our freedom and way of life during the war. It stands as a testament to the strength and courage of the human spirit and a tribute to the men and women who gave everything to keep us safe.
After many machinations, the germ of a dream came to fruition as The National Firefighters Memorial’ BLITZ ‘. It was erected on its site on Old Change Court, by St Paul’s Cathedral in London, and unveiled by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, on the 4 May 1991
Her Majesty the Queen Mother unveiled the memorial sculpture
“BLITZ” on 4 May 1991.
Front view
Small studio maquette Bronze sculpture 1984
“BLITZ” National Firefighters Memorial
Edition of 6’s Price: £ P.O.A.
The sculpture tells the story of three firefighters, a sub-officer, and two branch men in action, as in any great fire anywhere in the country during the blitz. The interdependence of these men and their comradeship, so typical of this service, intensified by the horror of welfare on the home front, gives the reason for this compact grouping.
The uniform and details of the posture and method of holding the branch hose are those of that time. The style of lettering used around the octagonal base to list the 1,027 names of men and women who died is the same as that used in the wartime ration book.
‘Gill Sans ‘.
Other references & links:
H.M.Queen Elizabeth II unveiling Women of World War II Monument
John W Mills images of Quentin Crisp
