The Lanarkshire Yeomanry Group intends to hold a commemorative event to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day and the subsequent release of FEPOWs. The Service will be held on Sunday 17th August, at the St Brigids' Centre, Newmains, Lanarkshire, and will begin at 2.00pm. The event will be open to the public, but is being organised primarily on behalf of the families of those who served in the Far-East during WW2, particularly those who were held as POWs by the Japanese.
Following a short Remembrance Service, there will be a presentation, during which the remarkable story will be told of the resilience and determination of the Lanarkshires when held in captivity as POWs in the Far-East. The Group hopes to make contact with as many families as possible, not just those from Lanarkshire, but across Scotland and beyond, to remember the sacrifice and depravity their relatives endured. Following this presentation, there will be refreshments, where attendees can mingle and chat to fellow members, friends and families.
Lady Susan Haughey, Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, will be joining the group in a private capacity, along with members of her own family. They have a special interest in the Far-East story as a very close family relative was held in one of the most cruel and savage of the hell camps.
This will not be an 'official' Civic event with related invitations. It is intended generally for the families of those whose forebears suffered during their incarceration, and for those with an interest in their enduring story and sacrifice. If anyone would like to attend and some of their FEPOW relative's story be narrated by Group Secretary, Campbell Thomson, please contact Agnes by email : agnes.dougan@live.com
