Jersey honours 80 years since D-Day at 79th Liberation Day celebrations

Thursday, 9 May 2024 07:55

Jersey will be marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day as part of Liberation Day.

This 9 May it is 79 years since islanders were freed from German occupation and the end of the Second World War.

Liberation celebrations are happening four weeks before the 80th anniversary of D-Day, which saw island veterans help with the landings in Normandy, ultimately beginning the Channel Islands' journey to freedom.

The Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, says this year's commemorations will highlight the significance of service and remember those who fought, and continue to fight, for our freedom.

"I, as ever, look forward to standing together with fellow islanders to celebrate this historic occasion, to share the stories of those who lived through the Occupation and to join together with friends and family for this significant island event."

Jersey's Bailiff Sir Tim Le Cocq

Celebrations start at 9:00 am when veterans, cadets, scouts, girl guides, St John's Ambulance and the Jersey Field Squadron will gather before marching in procession to Liberation Square at 10:15 am.

At 10:30 am there will be a special States Sitting where the Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham will give this year's Liberation Day address.

States Members, Crown Officers and Clergy will then process to Liberation Square at 10:50 am for the traditional thanksgiving service at 11:05 am.

Following the service there will be a re-enactment of Force 135's arrival at the Pomme d'Or Hotel with the flying of the Union Flag.

Islanders are then invited to sing 'Beautiful Jersey' and the national anthem.

From noon islanders can enjoy a march past and motorcade with the main celebrations ending at 12:15 pm.

At 3pm at the crematorium at Westmount, wreaths will be laid in memory of the slaveworkers forced to build fortifications for the Germans.

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