The Vernon Mine Warfare & Diving Monument stands in Portsmouth as a bronze memorial honouring the divers and personnel of HMS Vernon, the Royal Navy’s mine warfare and diving school. Unveiled on 17 March 2020, the monument was created by sculptor Mark Richards and recognises the service and sacrifice of those who trained and operated in this hazardous specialism. HMS Vernon itself operated from Gunwharf Quays and became synonymous with the development of naval diving techniques and mine countermeasures during the twentieth century.
The monument serves as a focal point for visitors interested in Portsmouth’s naval heritage and the broader history of Royal Navy mine warfare operations. Its location within the city makes it accessible to those exploring the waterfront and naval quarter, connecting visitors to the stories of the specialists who worked in one of the most dangerous roles in maritime warfare. The site commemorates not just operational achievement but the lives lost in training exercises and active service.