A 10ft bronze statue of a World War One Sikh soldier will soon be installed in a high street to commemorate 100 years since the end of this conflict that ripped the world apart.?
Everyone is now calling it a striking tribute to the community.?
"These men volunteered to serve and fought to defend the freedoms we enjoy today. said Jatinder Singh, President of the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Smethwick. "The memorial will ensure that this part is never forgotten," he added.?
The statue, depicting a Sikh serviceman carrying a rifle, will stand on a 6ft granite plinth with inscriptions that name the regiments in which South Asian soldiers served.
"I am incredibly proud to be working on a sculpture that is, at its heart, a statement of gratitude," said sculptor Luke Perry.?
Sandwell Council leader Steve Eling, said: "I am very proud that Smethwick is paying such a striking tribute to the very important role played by South Asian service personnel during times of conflict."
According to the council, the said stature will be installed in time for Armistice Day in November. Armistice Day is commemorated every year on 11 November to mark the armistice signed between the Allies of World War I and Germany at Compi¨¨gne, France.