Nantwich paid tribute to the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) with a moving ceremony held beside the War Memorial on the Town Square, writes Jonathan White.
VJ Day marks Japan’s surrender in 1945, bringing the Second World War to an end.
While the war in Europe ended on May 8 that year, the Burma campaign — fought by the British 14th Army, often called the “Forgotten Army” — continued until August.
By then, many in Europe had begun returning to everyday life, but troops and their families in the Far East were still in the midst of conflict.
The Service of Commemoration, organised by Nantwich Town Council, was attended by hundreds who gathered to honour those who served.
Reverend Dr Mark Hart, Rector of Nantwich, led the service and prayers, which included a Piper’s Lament, a two-minute silence, the Piper’s Reveille, and the Kohima Epitaph.
At midday, a helicopter from RAF Shawbury, Shropshire, made a low flypast over the Town Square in tribute.
Wreaths were laid by John Dwyer, President of the Nantwich & District Royal British Legion, and a representative from Nantwich Weaver Probus Club.
A posy of flowers was laid by the Nicholls family, accompanied by the message: “For the Forgotten Army who fought in the Japanese war. When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow we gave our today.”
Also present were Town Mayor Cllr Mary Slinn, Cllr Arthur Moran, representatives from the Royal British Legion and the Royal British Legion Riders Branch, and British actor and historical interpreter Richard Gumm, appearing as Winston Churchill.
A special guest was 99-year-old Jack Corbett, who served in Burma with the Intelligence Corps and was present during the Japanese surrender.
Music from the era was performed by The Funky Choir, featuring songs such as When You’re Smiling, It’s a Long Way to Tipperary, and We’ll Meet Again.
BBC North West recorded interviews with dignitaries and visitors for a forthcoming broadcast.
Commemorations continued with a VJ Day church service at St Mary’s Nantwich followed by the lighting of the beacon in the Town Square, https://www.nantwichtowncouncil.gov.uk/vj-in-nantwich
Quality coverage Nantwich News 🍀