These wooden posts represent the 306 British Soldiers who where 'Shot at Dawn' by a firing squad of 12 soldiers from their own unit. Many of these soldiers were suffering from shell shock, now known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Each wooden post has a number on it, along with a small metal plaque which gives the soldier's name.
Over the course of the First World War 15 Officers were sentenced to death by firing squad, however all of these were granted a royal pardon!!! The British attempted to deal with Australian soldiers in the same manner, but they were told by Australian Officers in no uncertain words what they could do.
The Shot at Dawn plot is just of many at this poignant and beautiful location. The National Armed Forces Memorial is also located here. Well worth a visit (in my opinion).
The Shot at Dawn Memorial, The National Memorial Arboretum near Alrewas, Staffordshire, England. Visit www.thenma.org.uk for more details about this location.
From my Tree Stories Project, 2003-.
Copyright of all images displayed upon this blog spot are the exclusive property of Trevor David Betts. All rights reserved.
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