Community / Wreaths laid on 80th anniversary of D-Day
A WREATH laying ceremony has been held to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
D-Day took place in June 1944 when allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy to begin the liberation of France and the end of World War Two.
The allied forces’ operation saw more than 155,000 allied troops supported by 11,500 aircraft and 6,900 naval vessels take part in a coordinated effort.
Shetland Islands Council convener Andrea Manson and lord lieutenant Lindsay Tulloch were involved in a wreath laying ceremony at the war memorial outside Lerwick Town Hall.
Manson said: “The D-Day landings sought to turn the tide of the Second World War after almost five years of conflict in Europe.
“It is sobering to reflect on the unprecedented scale of the D-Day operation, which was the largest invasion force in history.
“Among all the personnel of the allied forces that stormed the beaches, from many nations, were also Shetlanders – some of our own.
“Eighty years on, we honour all those who fought and died on D-Day and in the days that followed, for their bravery and for their sacrifice that altered the course of history.”
Tulloch added: “The D-Day landings signalled the start of the Battle for Normandy – a pivotal campaign to liberate France.
“The invasion saw thousands of brave soldiers – many just young men – risk their lives for freedom and peace to free Europe from the grip of Nazism.
“Though the campaign was ultimately successful, thousands of men died in the D-Day Landings and in the fields of Northern France.
“We must always remember their courage and pay our respects for their heroism and fortitude to the remaining veterans of the British and Allied Forces who were there.”
Meanwhile the date of the annual National Fish and Chip Day has been moved today to coincidence with the D-Day anniversary.
Fish and chips were not rationed during WWII in a bid to keep morale up.
Shetland Fishermen’s Association’s Sheila Keith said that “although everyday is perfect for a meal of fish and chips, today we should eat well and especially remember the sacrifices made in WW2”.
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