Veterans who died by suicide honoured at memorial
The UK's first permanent memorial dedicated to veterans and armed forces personnel who died by suicide has been unveiled at the National Memorial Arboretum. The project aims to provide a space for reflection for families and colleagues affected by these tragedies.
Why it matters
This memorial highlights the growing awareness of mental health struggles within the military community and the need for institutional support for veterans.
Image caption, The Elysium Memorial offers a contemplative space for families, friends and colleagues
Hundreds of people have gathered at the National Memorial Arboretum for the dedication of a permanent tribute to veterans and armed forces personnel who have died by suicide.
The Elysium Memorial , at the site in Alrewas, Staffordshire, is the first permanent memorial of its kind to be built in the UK.
More than 1,300 military veterans and personnel have taken their lives in the last 30 years, with the memorial aiming to provide a place for contemplation for those affected by the loss of a friend or loved one.
Edward Mackenzie, co-founder of the Elysium Memorial Foundation, which is behind the project, said he was "blown away" by the number of people that had turned up.
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