Lord Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, Mrs Susie Sheldon, participated in a programme of commemorative events across The Bay to mark the 75th Anniversary of VJ Day on the morning of Saturday 15th August 2020.
Events included meeting former service personnel from the Royal British Legion, laying commemorative VJ Day wreaths at Shanklin, Lake & Sandown Memorials and participating in a special service at Christ Church, Sandown. This was followed by a blessing of the Sandown Memorial to animals killed in both world wars.
The Lord Lieutenant, who was joined by High Sheriff Mrs Caroline Peelm said:
“It was important to mark the 75th Anniversary of VJ Day, working within COVID-19 guidance, recognising the sacrifices made, and it was a privilege to meet service personnel, as well as relations of those that served in the Far East 75 years ago”.
Mrs Peel added:
“Although this conflict is often referred to as the ‘Forgotten War’, we must ensure we remember the events of 75 years ago, the impact it had on those involved and their families, and although August 15th is recognised as the end of World War 2, many suffered for years to come”.
Rev Mark Williams conducted the commemorative service. The Mayors of Sandown and Shanklin, and Chair of Lake, laid wreaths with the Lord Lieutenant, accompanied by her cadets.
Councillor Ian Ward said the Exhortation and Kohima Epitaph and Nikki Sheard played the Last Post and Reveille.
A peel of commemorative bells at St Saviours was rung by Rev Barry Downer and the Lord Lieutenant was driven to each location in a 1940’s military vehicle courtesy of Darren and John Holmberg.
Well done to everyone , Ryde also held a small ceremony to remember.