The Rainham War Memorial commemorates soldiers killed in both World Wars as well as civilian casualties of World War II.
Monument
The monument is a clock tower in the centre of the town of Rainham, Greater London, England.[1] It is constructed of red Belgian brick, with Portland stone dressings. Portland stone is a limestone quarried on the Isle of Portland, Dorset, England. There is cast stone ornamentation as well. The memorial is a hexagonal short tower with clock faces on three of its sides. On a sloping base, the names of the war dead are inscribed. In addition, stone blocks inscribed with "Lest We Forget" are positioned at angles to the tower. There are also inscription panels on the sides of the monument. Narrow pilasters decorate the angles of the clock tower. Arches are present over a niche and doorway. The top of the clock tower features a parapet with balustrade.[1] Iron railings surround the memorial, which is prominently sited between Broadway and Upminster Road in front of Saint Helen and Saint Giles, the parish church of Rainham.[2]
In the photograph to the right, red poppy wreaths around the Rainham War Memorial further commemorate the area's dead soldiers. The Remembrance Day service continues to be held annually by the memorial. Also referred to as Armistice Day or Poppy Day, it is observed on 11 November. The residents of Rainham pay their respects by placing crosses and fresh poppy wreaths adjacent to the monument.[6][7]