Commemorative Events Planned to Mark the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings

Commemorative events have been planned to mark the 80^th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings on Thursday 6 June, including a Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony at Garlieston War Memorial from 12.00pm to 1.00pm.

The D-Day Landings of 6^th June 1944 was the largest seaborne invasion in history involving many thousands of brave men and women who had to leave their families and communities behind, not knowing if they would ever return. Along with the associated airborne operations, it marked the beginning of the liberation of France and western Europe.

In order to get supplies and other materials ashore after the landings, the military had been secretly planning, testing and developing a system of temporary portable harbours. Garlieston Harbour was chosen as the location for the secret trial runs of the prototype harbours, known as the Mulberry Harbour.

Given the strategic importance of the role that Garlieston played, it has been chosen as the location to commemorate this significant anniversary in Dumfries and Galloway. Legion Scotland personnel from across the region will come together to take part in a series of events including a parade and wreath laying ceremony.

The parade will include a display of John Webster Vintage Army Vehicles and Pipers from the Lochryan Pipe Band. Children from local schools, community groups and Council representatives will attend the event. His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Wigtown, Mrs Aileen Brewis, will unveil a commemorative bench and address the parade.

Dumfries and Galloway Council Convener, Councillor Malcolm Johnstone, said:“Our council is proud to share our plans to mark the 80^th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings, and of the hugely significant role that Garlieston played in the D-Day Landings on 6^th June 1944. This is an opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life and to remember the many thousands of men and women who played such a vital role on that fateful day in 1944”.

Dumfries and Galloway Council Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE, said: “As the 80^th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings approaches, our council is preparing to honour the occasion. We hope that many people will be able to support us on the day in commemorating the sacrifices that were made by so many of our comrades then, and in recognition of the continued active service of every soldier, sailor and aviator, and their families, who form part of our invaluable Armed Forces today”.

ENDS