Operation Reflect Continues at the National Army Museum
Operation Reflect Continues at the National Army Museum
Army Cadets continued their involvement in Operation Reflect at a commemorative event at the National Army Museum in London, recognising the global and multicultural contributions made during the First World War.
The event, Op Reflect Global Chapter: Showcasing Values Through Commemoration, took place on 29 July 2026 and followed a three-day commemorative tour of France and Belgium earlier that month.
Army Cadets representatives previously visited significant sites including Lijssenthoek, the Neuve-Chapelle Memorial, Canada Farm, and Longuenesse (St Omer). They attended a service at St George’s Memorial Church and the Menin Gate Ceremony. The experience provided them with an opportunity to learn more about the service and sacrifice of people from across the Commonwealth and diverse communities, including the inequalities and injustices many experienced.
Continuing the Journey of Remembrance
The event at the National Army Museum provided another opportunity to reflect on those stories and ensure the contributions of people who have historically received less recognition remain part of how the First World War is remembered.
Members of the বৈচিত্র্য এবং অন্তর্ভুক্তি Multicultural network and Army Cadets network who had taken part in the earlier commemorative tour attended the event, continuing their commitment to sharing these stories and helping build a fuller, more inclusive understanding of the conflict.
The event reinforced the importance of recognising and honouring this service when Lt Gen Paul Griffiths CB read a message from His Majesty King Charles III.
Honouring the Stories of the Past
Two families were recognised for the contributions made by their forefathers. They were presented with a medal designed to become a lasting point of conversation, remembrance and education for future generations.
The event also brought these stories to life through art, exhibitions and performance.
The Tapestry of Black Britons, an initiative by Paula Ogun, was displayed at the museum, highlighting the contributions of African and Caribbean men and women during the First and Second World Wars.
Visitors also experienced displays representing the British West Indian Regiment, Chinese Labour Corps, African Army, Indian Army, Fiji and Nepal. Their stories were explored through dance, spoken word and song, alongside Mahtab Hussain’s Forgotten Army exhibition in bronze. Brig Karl Harris CBE also spoke passionately about the vision for Project ANTHONY.
Reflecting on the Past and Looking Forward
For the Army Cadets representatives involved, Operation Reflect has been about more than visiting historic locations. It has provided an opportunity to understand whose stories have traditionally been told, whose have received less recognition and why remembering the full contribution of those who served matters today.
By continuing to tell and share these stories, Operation Reflect aims to encourage remembrance, education and a greater understanding of the contributions made by Commonwealth communities and people from diverse backgrounds.
The National Army Museum event marked the next stage of that journey, bringing together commemoration, culture and storytelling to honour those who served while encouraging future generations to reflect on the past and help shape a more inclusive future.
Written by Sgt Josephine Biss and Lt Anthony Jemmott.
