Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely attended Shanklin Chine on Sunday (19th May) to remember the heroism of military personnel during D-Day landings.
The event, organised as part of the 75th anniversary commemoration of D-Day, was held at Shanklin Chine – the former training ground for detachments of Royal Marines and US Army Rangers during the build-up to the Normandy landings of 6th June 1944.
Lord Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, Susan Sheldon, formally opened a D-Day 75 exhibition in the heritage centre, which also recalls the chine’s pivotal role in the top-secret Operation PLUTO (Pipe-Line Under the Ocean) project to fuel the Allied advance from the invasion beaches.
During an outdoor service of remembrance and thanksgiving a tree commemorating the D-Day role of the US Rangers, and those among its number whose lives were lost, was planted by Lt.-Colonel Michael Skaggs, Marine Attaché representing the US Ambassador to Britain.
Wreaths were later laid in memory of all those who made the ultimate sacrifice and were represented on Sunday.
Bob said:
“I was honoured to attend the event and meet the veterans who played such an important role in defending the freedoms of this country, and indeed the world, against the Nazi threat.
“This was one of any events planned to commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day and I know Islanders will be eager not just to honour the contributions of our service personnel but also to learn about the momentous events they helped to shape. We owe our freedom to these brave servicemen and women.”
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Anne Springman, President of the IW branch of the Royal Marines, said:
“I’m delighted that so many people attended the events at Shanklin Chine. It was a touching tribute with the service including poetry readings and summaries of the wartime exploits of the Royal Marines and its commando forces who had trained at the chine”.
“In the two-minute silence all you could hear was the lapping of the waves and birds singing.
“I would like to thank all those who came to the event, including our MP, for marking this very important occasion.”
