The Royal Engineers Museum recently hosted a powerful and well-attended event titled Recognise and organised by the Medway African Caribbean Association (MACA). Held on Saturday, 16th August, the event focused on honouring the often-overlooked contributions of African and Caribbean service personnel during the Second World War.
The day featured a keynote presentation by David Lawrence, cultural historian, broadcaster, and Windrush descendant, who shared personal reflections and historical insights into the legacy of African and Caribbean soldiers in British forces. His talk was both informative and deeply moving, offering a blend of historical context and lived experience that resonated strongly with the audience.
Attendees also heard heartfelt stories from veterans and their families, some passed down through generations. These personal accounts added a human dimension to the historical narrative, highlighting the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of those who served in a war that often failed to fully acknowledge their contributions.
The event was formally welcomed by Colonel Dickie Hawkins, speaking in his capacity as RE Corps Colonel and Vice Chair of the Museum’s Board of Trustees. His address expressed gratitude to all participants and reinforced the Museum’s commitment to community engagement and our aspirations toward telling a universal narrative.
The event was also attended by the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Medway council
“The Deputy Mayor of Medway said of the event: “On behalf of the Mayor of Medway and I, we are grateful to Dr Carol Stewart for hosting such a special occasion, honouring the vital contribution of African and Caribbean service personnel. David J Lawrence’s heartfelt talk and the veterans’ reflections were a moving reminder of their sacrifice and enduring legacy. It was so fascinating to listen and see the joy, surprise and emotion of former armed service personnel who had not seen each other since their time in Germany and much more. We look forward to seeing more events as clearly there is so much more that could be said.”
Supported by the Medway Council Heritage Fund as part of the VE and VJ commemoration, in partnership with the Museum, REcognise attracted a diverse audience including residents, historians, educators, and community leaders. The event formed part of a wider initiative to promote inclusive heritage and ensure that all chapters of British history are recognised and remembered.
Set within the historic surroundings of the Royal Engineers Museum, REcognise provided a meaningful space for reflection, learning, and connection. It served as a reminder that history is not only about dates and battles—it’s about people, their indominable courage and the importance of telling every part of the story.
Dr Carol Stewart said of the event “ it was such a memorable, emotional and informative day one in which we saw communities from across Medway and beyond, be fully immersed in a journey of so many untold stories about the African and Caribbean contribution to WW1 and WW2 David is a very engaging and knowledgeable orator, and the Royal Engineers Museum provided the perfect setting, On behalf of MACA, I would like to thank everyone at the Royal Engineers Museum for hosting this event we look forward to many more”
ENDS
