Permanent Memorial Unveiled for Fallen Staffordshire Soldiers

Staffordshire Trio Remembered

A poignant permanent memorial has been unveiled to the public, honouring three soldiers from the Staffordshire Regiment who tragically lost their lives in Iraq more than two decades ago. The tribute commemorates Pte Leon Spicer, 26, Pte Phillip Hewett, 21, both from Tamworth, Staffordshire, and 2nd Lt Richard Shearer, 26, of Nuneaton, Warwickshire. The men were killed by a roadside bomb in Al Amarah in July 2005.

Over £50,000 was successfully raised for the enduring memorial, a fundraising initiative spearheaded by Anthony Frith, a comrade who served alongside the men and was on patrol with them during the fatal incident. The "Staffordshire 3" memorial was revealed on the lower lawn at Tamworth Castle following a morning event.

"Oaths Taken, Oaths Fulfilled" and "Watchman"

The formal unveiling showcased two distinct memorials, titled "Oaths Taken, Oaths Fulfilled" and "Watchman". Artist and sculptor Johanna Domke-Guyot, known for her previous work on the Victory over Blindness statue for Blind Veterans UK, created the monument.

Mr Frith, 42, now residing in Atherstone, Warwickshire, stated the memorial stands approximately 91cm (3ft) tall and will be further elevated on a plinth atop the Mercian Formation Bench. He previously articulated his desire for the tribute to serve as a special community space for reflection and remembrance.