Plans are Afoot for VJ Day

When is an event not an event? When we are planning to commemorate VJ day within the restrictions of COVID-19 and current operating procedures within the site.


Few places are able to commemorate VJ day this year. We have been lucky, with the support from Bandoola Productions, to put together our external display on the parade square, but we were keen to think about marking the 15th August in some way, but how to do that in the current climate.

The local branch of the Regimental Association were asked to help. To provide a few members to represent the Border Regiment, and lead on two minutes silence at 11am. Not that we are actively promoting this. We cannot become a focal point for commemorative activity and therefore have a 'gathering' for a few minutes of remembrance. So we have decided to mark the occasion at the Castle on Saturday morning, asking visitors to remain still and remember. Our own small act of remembrance.

We are keen that people do think about the war in the Far East and remember the Forgotten Army. The Military Vehicle Trust have kindly agreed to bring some WW2 vehicles to the Castle for people to see. And our old friend, John Sadler from the North East will be showing some of his Burma related material to interested onlookers. Saturday is turning into an impromptu event. All at a safe distance, of course.

So with limited advertising and alot of support, this Saturday sees us commemorating VJ day and the end of hostilities in World War Two in our own way, within the restrictions. Everything must be safe for those attending. Now back to the risk assessment...!


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