Memorial plaques are on the four faces of the monument, containing lists of those who left the town of Crewe in October 1899 to undertake duty in South Africa. The north facing pediment has the former Arms of the Borough with the motto "Never Behind" inscribed below the dates 1899-1902. The bronze figure of Tommy Atkins, with rifle, bandoleer belt, pouch and water bottle, stands to attention at the top of the monument.

On either side of the base, lying down, are two full-size stone lions. At the front of the monument, the magnificent model bronze engine built by a Crewe Works Fitter Harry Lightfoot once stood. This is now on permenant display in the foyer of the Municipal Buildings. It has been used for displays throughout the Borough  including the Queen Elizabeth II visit to the 1987 Heritage site.