Swansea’s World War II veterans are set to take centre stage at a special event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the war, VJ Day.
August 15,1945, brought the war to a close when Japan formally surrendered – two months after VE Day was declared in Europe.
And on Friday, August 15, a small band of veterans who served in World War II will be at Swansea’s Guildhall in front of an invited audience for a commemorative event.
At noon council buildings and libraries will be joining the rest of the UK for the national two minute silence to commemorate VJ Day.
The same evening the Guildhall will be lit red, white and blue, in honour of those who have served and continue to serve.
Swansea’s Lord Mayor, Cllr Cheryl Philpott, and Council Leader Rob Stewart are hosting the Guildhall event.
Cllr Philpott said: “We owe those who served in World War II and conflicts since – and those who serve today – a debt of gratitude we can never repay.
“The generation which served our nation and the cause of freedom around the world during World War II is passing on. It’s just one of the reasons why we need to make sure the 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day is a special one.”
Those attending Friday’s event also include the Lord Lieutenant of West Glamorgan, Louise Fleet, representatives from veterans groups, military associations, Cllr Elliott King, Cabinet Member for Equalities, Human Rights and Culture and the council’s Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Wendy Lewis,
The occasion is part of a range of events staged in Swansea over the last few months to honour those who took part in the war.
Cllr Stewart said: “We wanted to do all we could to make this year’s VE Day and VJ Day anniversaries extra special for veterans, their families and the people of Swansea.
He said: “Swansea Council has always stood side by side with veterans of all conflicts, supporting them at commemorative events as well as with practical support and access to our services.
“The council proudly supports those who serve and who have served. It’s an honour to be able to celebrate the essential work carried out now and in the past by the nation’s service personnel.”
“Our programme of celebrations and commemorations this year have been created following engagement with veterans groups, military and community representatives and more is planned for November’s remembrance season.”
