RBLI launches Echoes to commemorate VE Day 80
Royal British Legion Industries today (Wednesday 16 April 2025) unveiled ‘Echoes’, a poignant new art installation in the Port of Dover created by the artist Martin Barraud.
The installation, which is free to view and open to the public, serves as a powerful tribute to two significant milestones in the nation’s history: the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day) and the 90th anniversary of the invention of RADAR, both of which are being celebrated this May.
Inspired by the acoustic sound mirrors that once lined the south coast of England as the Second World War loomed, Echoes – a 3m x 3m sculpture – stands as a reminder of a crucial early technological advancement. These acoustic sound mirrors were a vital precursor to RADAR, a technology of such importance in helping to defend the nation that its impact on the outcome of the war cannot be overstated.
Speaking at the unveiling of Echoes, Lisa Farmer OBE, Chief Executive of RBLI, said: “Our enduring mission to support and care for those affected by, not just the Second World War, but by all conflict continues to this day. That we are still fortunate enough to have some veterans of that awful conflict still with us today, is incredible and cause for celebration.
She continued: “Through Echoes, we hope that, as people commemorate this important year, they will also reflect on the vital role RBLI plays in providing housing for veterans of all ages at our village in Aylesford, Kent.”
Since 1919, the Royal British Legion Industries Village has been a dedicated community providing care and support to those in need.
Currently home to more than 300 veterans and their families, the village is operating at full capacity, with demand for services continuing to rise. In the last 12 months alone, there has been a 45% increase in requests and referrals for RBLI emergency veteran accommodation.
To address this growing need, RBLI has launched its VE Day Tommy campaign, aiming to fund a new development at its Aylesford site that will provide 100 new homes for 100 veterans.
The public can support this crucial initiative by purchasing a commemorative VE Day Tommy or a Limited Edition Echoes Tommy.
All funds raised will directly contribute to housing vulnerable members of the veteran community.
Lisa Farmer added: “Without the incredible generosity of the British public, RBLI would not be able to deliver the life-changing support we provide to our brave Armed Forces community. By purchasing a VE Day Tommy, you are not only acquiring a meaningful keepsake but also directly contributing to providing a safe and supportive home for a veteran in need.”
Also present at the unveiling on 16 April is former Chief of the General Staff, Lord Dannatt GCB, CBE, MC, DL, a Patron of RBLI. He said: “As we mark the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day, we must ensure that the sacrifices of the past continue to resonate clearly in our national consciousness.”
“We commemorate those who fought and fell in the struggle against tyranny, securing the freedoms we enjoy today.”
Lord Dannatt added: “VE Day 80 is a moment to reflect on the immense contribution of all who served, those who fought on land, at sea, and in the air, and those on the home front who worked tirelessly, these countless individuals gave their all in the face of great adversity. Their legacy is one of duty, resilience, and sacrifice – and through the work of RBLI and Echoes it is one we must continue to honour and uphold.”
While some of the original acoustic sound mirrors from the 1930s can still be seen dotted along England’s southern coastline, “many have decayed and lie derelict”, Martin Barraud, the artist behind the striking monolithic sculpture, explained.
“I wanted to create a piece that celebrated this period of great British ingenuity and scientific advancement, while at the same time honouring those that gave so much in the contribution to victory in Europe,” he said.
Thanks to the generosity of the Dover Harbour Board, Echoes will be placed at Marina Curve, with Dover Castle, the White Cliffs, and the English Channel as its backdrop. This powerful setting serves as a reminder of Britain’s resilience and the immense sacrifices made to secure the nation’s freedom.