Memorials are of different kinds. There are those to recognise significant and historic figures, even where they have lived. However, most are a tragedy of some kind, especially if we remember the many cemeteries and cenotaphs associated with the two World Wars.
The above photograph shows a memorial to commemorate those who lost their lives in the sinking of a trawler, particularly devastating since it affected such a small and local population.
There are many such memorials, concerning those who lost their lives on land, sea and in the air. They remind us of the sacrifice others make.
These days most of us live fairly comfortable lives in the developed world, and we tend to forget the danger others put themselves in for our benefit, whether it be mining, fishing, on the oilrigs etc. Hopefully these memorials make us a little more humble and grateful, and remind subsequent generations.