Salisbury to mark D-Day's 80th anniversary

Tuesday, 21 May 2024 01:00

Salisbury City Council and the Salisbury branch of The Royal British Legion will mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day with two special events.

On 6th June 1944, Allied Troops successfully landed in Normandy by air as part of the largest-ever Amphibious Operation.

Sadly, nearly 1,500 British Servicemen lost their lives that day.

The names of 15 men from Salisbury who died in the Normandy campaign are detailed on the South side of the City War Memorial, on the Guildhall Square.

Image: Salisbury City Council

In the build-up to D-Day, Salisbury’s streets bustled with Servicemen and particularly large numbers of GIs from the United States of America.

Victoria Park hosted performances by top performers of the day, such as the Glenn Miller band and even a boxing match with World Champion Joe Louis, to entertain the troops.

Salisbury City Council and the Salisbury branch of The Royal British Legion are partnering on two events in Salisbury on June 6, 2024, to mark the 80th anniversary of D Day.

City residents are invited to attend a small, short service in the morning and a more formal remembrance event in the evening at the War Memorial on Guildhall Square.

At 8 am there will be a gathering at the War Memorial to hear the Town Criers Proclamation and a short service of Remembrance. The timing reflects all the activity that occurred in the early hours of D-Day. At 6:15 pm there will be a formal Remembrance event at the War Memorial, led by the City Mayor with Deputy Lord Lieutenant in attendance

On Saturday, 8th June, The Royal British Legion will host a Gala Dinner and Dance at the Guildhall.

A special event to commemorate D-Day, with all money raised going to the RBL Poppy Appeal.

Details about the evening and ticket information for this memorable event can be found at https://salisbury-afvbc.co.uk/d-day-80-dinner-and-dance-saturday-8th-june-2024/ or by emailing salisbury.secretary@rblcommunity or by calling 01722 680125

Cllr Sven Hocking, Mayor of Salisbury, commented “Salisbury recognises the great bravery, and in many cases the ultimate sacrifice, made by thousands of men on this day eighty years ago, many of whom were from our City. We remember their courage with pride, sadness and humility in equal measure and pray that such an action will never be necessary again."

Bob Barwick, Vice President of Salisbury RBL, said "6th June 1944 stands out as a pivotal moment in WW2, the acts of heroism, bravery and sacrifice on that day are inspiring and are locked in the annuls of British History.

"Alongside the International and National events, we feel it is important to provide an opportunity for Salisbury residents to come together and collectively remember what happened on this momentous day."