338 Ramsgate Remembers

Standing with Giants to Commemorate Dunkirk with 338 Silhouettes in Ramsgate

This May, the historic harbour at Ramsgate will become the setting for a powerful and moving tribute as Standing with Giants installs 338 life-sized silhouettes along the quayside, honouring the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of those involved in the Dunkirk evacuation of 1940.

Operation Dynamo

Operation Dynamo was the emergency rescue of over 338,000 British and Allied troops, surrounded by German forces in France during the Second World War. Nearly 900 naval and civilian “Little Ships” sailed into danger to bring them home under relentless enemy fire. The 338 silhouettes represent the servicemen and women, alongside the Little Ships of Ramsgate, whose bravery played a vital role in one of the most remarkable rescue operations in modern history.

Delivered in collaboration with Ramsgate Town Promoter, Ramsgate Town Council, and the Royal Temple Yacht Club Association, the installation reflects a shared commitment to preserving and honouring the town’s remarkable wartime heritage.

  • Location : Ramsgate Quayside
  • Display Dates : Saturday 17th May 2026 to 29th June 2026
  • The Little Ships Return Festival : 22nd May to 25th May 2026

Each silhouette represents a life, a story, and a moment in history, creating a striking visual reminder of both the scale of the evacuation and the human cost behind it. The installation stands as a tribute to the courage, resilience, and unity shown during Operation Dynamo, ensuring that the stories of those involved are remembered for generations to come.

Alongside the main installation, an additional four 8-foot Standing with Giants silhouettes will be installed to honour the town of Ramsgate during the 1940s, recognising the resilience of the local community and the vital role the town played during the war. These larger figures will help tell the wider story of home front life, standing as a powerful reminder that the impact of war reached far beyond the battlefield.

About Standing with Giants

Standing with Giants is a UK charity dedicated to creating large-scale remembrance installations that honour service, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of those who gave their tomorrow for our today. Their work transforms landscapes into places of reflection, education, and connection.

About Ramsgate Town Council

Ramsgate Town Council serves the local community, supporting cultural initiatives, events, and heritage projects that celebrate the town’s rich history and strengthen community engagement.

About Royal Temple Yacht Club Association

The Royal Temple Yacht Club Association has long-standing connections to Ramsgate’s maritime heritage and continues to play an active role in commemorating the town’s historic contribution to events such as Dunkirk.