A memorial stone for the Parachute Regiment has been ‘revamped’ in St. John’s Gardens
A memorial stone for the Parachute Regiment has been ‘revamped’ in St. John’s Gardens
A memorial stone for the Parachute Regiment has received a blessing in St. John’s Gardens. The memorial stone which was “worn and hidden away” was given a revamp thanks to the Liverpool Parachute Association ahead of Remembrance Day.
Liverpool Parachute Association members often attend the gardens to tidy up and clean around the stone to show respect for fallen soldiers. On October 26 the Parachute Regiment and Airborne Forces memorial stone received a blessing from Revd Canon Bill Addy, after being transformed.
The Parachute Regimental Association (PRA) was formed at the end of the Second World War to further the interests of The Parachute Regiment and to organise functions and activities so members could continue associations formed during their service with the Regiment and Airborne Forces.
Mike Coleman, 68, told the ECHO: “The stone was laying flat on the ground, I thought it’d be better to get it raised on a pedestal. I got a stone mason in to tidy it up a bit and then we held a service on the October 26.”
Mike served in the Parachute Regiment for four years before he was injured in action, causing him to leave the force. Since then, he’s worked within the group to bring awareness to the courageous work done by the Parachute Regiment.
Mike said: “There aren’t many of us left now, but it’s a big deal for us to move our stone. Andrew Grassi at Welsby Memorials LTD did a fantastic job of it, and the memorial is a cause close to his heart too. The Association are very grateful for the work Andrew did and want to thank him for his support and generosity.”
