With the anniversary of D-day and Arnhem both passed and remembered on the beaches and at Arnhem what will be the next focal point be? The concentation camps liberation?
To my knowledge there are ceremonies in the Ardennes in December (we have 3 coach loads going to attend ones near Bastogne), and others planned for the Rhine Crossing Anniversary next March. I also understand there is a 'national' remembrance day for WW2 next July.
Originally posted by Paul Reed@Sep 25 2004, 04:45 PM To my knowledge there are ceremonies in the Ardennes in December (we have 3 coach loads going to attend ones near Bastogne), and others planned for the Rhine Crossing Anniversary next March. I also understand there is a 'national' remembrance day for WW2 next July. [post=28368]Quoted post[/post] Yes indeed "Two major events are being planned for the last formal, publicly funded commemoration of the Second World War. The 60th anniversary commemoration events will both take place on Sunday 10th July 2005, the mid-point between Victory in Europe (VE) and Victory in Japan (VJ) days. Over 2000 veterans representing all areas of the country will be invited to attend a lunch in a marquee at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Following the lunch, at 3pm, an event of commemoration, reflection and thanksgiving will take place on Horse Guards Parade in London. 11,000 people who were involved in W.W.II in different capacities, across all theatres of conflict and members of 'Home Front' organisations, will be invited to attend."
Can anybody tell me more of the 60th anniversary of the Rhine Crossing? Is it for operation Varsity? Is there some kind of programme? Thanks!
I have been looking around for one, and haven't found anything yet. As soon as I find any details I will post them here.
Do'nt forget that veterans like Gerry Chester and Tom Canning among many were fighting their way up Italy in late 1944 in a campaign (sadly now consigned to the margins of WW2 history) just as hard fought as others being remembered. One by one Cassino, Ortona, Moro River, Sangro and Coriano Ridge anniversaries are passing. The Italian Campaign had a huge impact on the German capacity to wage war by drawing off forces from northern Europe. Some 38,000 Commonwealth WW2 dead are buried in thirty-seven war cemeteries in Italy plus 4000 with no known grave commemorated on the Cassino Memorial. We will remember them, both the dead and the living.
Quite right Colin - sixty years ago my father's Field Regiment were fighting on the Gothic Line. And in December it will be the sixtieth anniversary of my good friend John Dray's wound at Faenza (John is also a member of this forum). I suspect it is not that they are forgotten; it's just that even today D Day overshadows it all... there was very little media wise even on Arnhem and I suspect the Rhine Crossing and Anniversary of the River Po battle in Italy will have little or no coverage next year...
Can anybody tell me more of the 60th anniversary of the Rhine Crossing? Is it for operation Varsity? Is there some kind of programme? Thanks Any idea what town would be the closest to the commeration?...and inturn the closest airport? cheers all Mark
Originally posted by markinbelfast@Oct 6 2004, 01:57 PM Any idea what town would be the closest to the commeration?...and inturn the closest airport? [post=28576]Quoted post[/post] The nearest towns are Kleve, Goch and Wesel. Have a look at: http://www.mappy.com/ which should help you plan the visit.
re 10th July 2005 The latest I have received from Royal British Legion is that there will be three national functions in London on that day: Service in Westminster Abbey Lunch in Buckingham Palace Gardens Horse Guards Parade Event If you know of Veterans who wish to attend any of these would suggest that they get their names to the RBL soon.