Rt Hon David Evennett, MP for Bexleyheath and Minister for the First World War Commemorations, visited the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich yesterday (28 June) for the Battle of Jutland exhibition.
The new ‘Jutland 1916’ gallery opened to coincide with the centenary of the Battle of Jutland, which was the largest sea battle of WWI. The display presents the compelling story of the ships, technology, strategy and impact of the battle on both the men who fought and their families. The exhibition also uncovers stories of the aftermath of the battle, from the personal accounts of the sailors and their families, to the broader views of the nations on both sides of the conflict and the media reports driving them.
Mr Evennett is pictured with Andrew Choong, a Curator at the museum, and Kevin Fewster, the Director. He spoke with them about the exhibition and of his own personal association with the battle, as his grandfather, Clyde Turner, served on HMS Malaya during the Battle of Jutland at the age of 20.
After the visit, Mr Evennett commented: “This is a brilliant exhibition and the staff have done a fantastic job. I would urge anyone to attend to learn about the only major naval battle of the First World War”.
“I am very fortunate that my grandfather survived the Battle of Jutland, and he often spoke of his experiences in the Royal Navy as a stoker and subsequently a chief petty officer. However, there were many who left their families behind, never to return, and it is essential that we never forget these heroic men.”