Wick VE Day commemoration: ‘We must remember those who died and could not celebrate the end of war’
The hardships endured in World War II, and the sacrifices made by those who didn’t survive to see the end of the conflict, were remembered at a Victory in Europe service in Wick today.
The 80th anniversary commemoration was organised by the Wick, Canisbay and Latheron branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland in the garden of remembrance outside Wick Town Hall.
A crowd of more than 70 watched Willie Watt, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Caithness, lay a wreath against a VE Day sign that had been hand-painted by Alex Paterson, the Legion branch chairman, and which took pride of place against a backdrop of tulips in full bloom.
Legion representatives were joined by members of the public including workers from nearby offices and workmen involved in turning the former RBS building into a banking hub.
A two-minute silence was observed at 11am, followed by the lament Flowers of the Forest. The Rev John Nugent gave a short reading.
Pipers were Gordon Tait and Alasdair Miller of Wick RBLS Pipe Band, and the Legion branch standard-bearers were Kevin McDonald and Kevin Stewart.
Mr Paterson laid a second wreath at the Wick war memorial.
Speaking afterwards, Mr Watt said: “VE Day was indeed a celebration to record that there was an end to hostilities and tragedies. However, it came at the cost of 70-80 million people around the world.
“We must remember those who died and could not celebrate the end of war in Europe – their sacrifice gave us 80 conflict-free years around our shores. And we must also fight tooth and nail to ensure that the fragile peace we enjoy here is not broken, as has happened in many places around the world and closer to home in Ukraine.
“War is such a waste, and it is a sobering reminder that 1308 Caithness soldiers died in World War I and World War II – a huge number of brave men from a small community.
“That said, we are here today to celebrate the end of World War II in Europe. It is important that there was joy and hope after such hardships were endured by everyone of that era.
“Politicians, the young and the old must listen to the veterans who, without exception, would vote for political resolutions rather than guns and bombs to solve the disagreements, hatred or religious matters that lead to war.
“We must celebrate today and remember those of yesterday.”
Legion branch president Murray Lamont said: “We’re pleased that a good cross-section of the community turned out, including those in their working clothes.
“It just shows that they are not forgotten.”
Mr Paterson added: “It was excellent. The Wickers always come out.”
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