Attend the Dedication Service for Sapper Dorothy Lawrence Memorial

We invite all members of the Royal Engineers Association to join us for a special service honouring Sapper Dorothy Lawrence – a remarkable pioneer in our Corps’ history.

Who was Dorothy Lawrence?
Dorothy Lawrence was born in 1896 and became a courageous journalist determined to report from the front lines during the First World War. Facing strict prohibitions against women serving in combat zones, Dorothy disguised herself as a male sapper and joined the Corps of Royal Engineers on the Western Front. For ten days, she worked alongside her fellow engineers, laying mines and repairing roads under constant threat of enemy fire. Her daring actions made her the first and only female Royal Engineer of the Great War.

Dorothy’s bravery came at great personal cost. When her true identity was discovered, she was arrested, interrogated, and repatriated to England. Despite her efforts to share her story, she faced official censorship and social stigma, and her achievements were largely forgotten for decades.

After the War:
Dorothy published a memoir about her experiences, but it was heavily censored and did not receive the recognition it deserved at the time. Her health declined, and she struggled with the psychological impact of her wartime experiences and the lack of acknowledgement for her pioneering role. Tragically, Dorothy spent much of her later life in mental health institutions, passing away in 1964. She was laid to rest at New Southgate Cemetery, where her memorial now stands.

Legacy:
Dorothy Lawrence’s story was rediscovered decades later, and she is now recognised as a trailblazer for women in journalism and the military. Her courage and determination have inspired plays, documentaries, and exhibitions, including features at the Imperial War Museum. Her legacy stands as a testament to the resilience and ambition of women who challenge the boundaries of their time.

Event Details:  

• Date: Wednesday, 5th November 2025  
• Time: 10:30 – 11:30  
• Location: New Southgate Cemetery – Brunswick Park Rd, London. N11 1JJ
• Find it: What3Words ///major.think.fingernails
• Who’s attending: Serving members of the Corps of Royal Engineers, REA veterans, other associations, and the BBC (filming for Remembrance coverage)

Join us as we dedicate the memorial to Sapper Dorothy Lawrence and celebrate her extraordinary life and legacy. This is a unique opportunity to pay tribute to a true pioneer and to reflect on the enduring values of courage and service that unite us all.

We look forward to seeing you there.