The location for a permanent memorial to commemorate the centenary of the First World War was supported by both Network Rail and Transport for Greater Manchester.

[1] The exterior area outside the main entrance of Piccadilly station has historically been used for temporary exhibits and sculptures such as the Bee in the City art trail in 2018.

[4] With funding from the Gosling Foundation and support for a prominent location in Manchester, Blind Veterans UK commissioned the sculpture to commemorate the centenary of the First World War.

It was inspired by a photograph the sculptor saw of World War I veterans, blinded in combat, leading one another from the front.

[8] The sculpture was well-received with it being described as "moving" for its subject matter and "striking" for its interaction with passers-by at eye level.