In his letter His Royal Highness says: “The United Kingdom is recognised around the world as the home of modern policing but, as recent events have reminded us, that rich heritage is interwoven with a history of sacrifice. More than 1,400 police officers and staff have died in the line of duty, and it is high time a Police Memorial in the National Memorial Arboretum existed to act as a focal point for remembrance and gratitude.
“Since 2001, the National Memorial Arboretum has been a place of solemn remembrance and quiet reflection. It is therefore a fitting place in which to pay tribute to the bravery and dedication of the policemen and women who have given up their lives, and the commitment and courage of all those who continue to serve.
“This campaign aims to fund a physical memorial and a digital experience, as well as a living memorial that will help to support the families of the fallen. The money committed so far by the Government, as well as Chief Constables, Police and Crime Commissioners, staff associations and companies and business is testament to the significance of this project, and I have no doubt that people across the UK will be eager to raise the rest of the funds needed.
“I am delighted to lend my support to this campaign to raise funds to honour the memory of the hundreds of fallen officers by erecting a UK Police Memorial in the National Memorial Arboretum.”
Sir Hugh Orde, Chair of the Police Arboretum Memorial Trust said: “We are delighted that His Royal Highness is supporting the Memorial and campaign. He was clearly moved by the events in London back in March and asked specifically to lay a wreath in the Police Memorial Garden at the NMA when he visited a few days after the tragedy.
“I am sure that the Duke of Cambridge’s message will resonate with members of the public who will want to support this project. Together we can establish a fitting tribute to the brave men and from our police service who have given so much.”
