Sunday, August 13, 2023
8:06 pm
All members welcome to VJ-Day commemorations and COFEPOW AGM, NMA Sunday, August 13th, 2023
As we return to some measure of normality following the pandemic, the trustees of COFEPOW plan to return to a traditional Service of Remembrance to commemorate the 78th anniversary of VJ-Day, on Sunday 13th August, at the NMA. Marking the Allied victory over the forces of Japan allows people to come together to honour the heroism of their forbears, many of whom endured unimaginable suffering and have now passed out of living memory.
The last couple of year’s restrictions have severely impacted attendance, so it’s hoped that larger numbers that joined members historically can now return. Many come to meet old and new friends at the Service at the FEPOW Memorial Building and Grove, which follows the AGM
The Trustees would be delighted if you can attend the Service. The AGM is held in the Aspects Conference Suite (situated where the marquee used to be) where members can listen to progress made within the COFEPOW charity in furthering its aim of establishing and maintaining memorials and promoting educational material. The Accounts will be reviewed, and attendees will see where donations are allocated and how the charity is run generally. The trustees and other officers of COFEPOW will also be on hand to answer any questions you may have.
Tea/coffee and biscuits will be available after the AGM, when you can chat and get to know other members and learn more of the work of the charity.
Agenda of the day’s events National Memorial Arboretum, Alrewas, Nr. Lichfield, Staffordshire.
- 10.30 - The AGM will commence in the Aspects Conference Suite
- 12.00 - Break for lunch
- 13.00 - Salute at the FEPOW Memorial Building - The Last Post
- 13.45 - Return to the Aspects Conference Suite to attend the VJ-Day Commemorative Service
- 14.00 - Tea/coffee and biscuits and a chance to gather and meet friends
- 16.00 - Finish
The AGM will commence at 10.30 a.m., and should terminate at around 12.00 noon. Lunch can be obtained at the NMA restaurant, after which, members will be able to make the short walk to join the service at the FEPOW Memorial Building and Grove, whereafter the laying of wreaths will take place. If you think you would like to attend the AGM and/or the Remembrance Service, it would help us in reserving seating and organising catering if you would contact the following as soon as possible to provisionally reserve a place: Chris Wills, COFEPOW National Event Co-ordinator, 74 The Greenway,Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B73 6SG. Tel: 0121 244 7263.
