Public called to attend remembrance service

2:40pm Friday 25th July 2008

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A REMEMBRANCE service in St Albans honouring the anniversary of the end of the Second World War may be the last.

The VJ day ceremony which takes places on August 3 at Jersey Farm, Woodland Park, is under threat due to the declining numbers of youngsters attending the event.

Organisers are hoping more of the public will gather this year in honouring servicemen and women who sacrificed their lives in the war against Japan.

“The number of WWII veterans proudly wearing their medals and insignia is sadly declining as a result of advanced age and deterioration of health,” said acting chairman of the Burma Star Association Reg Cox.

“Apart from the faithful families and friends of participants who attend the service there are no teens or people in their 20s or 30s.”

The service will start at 3pm and the veterans will be joined by the Deputy Mayor of St Albans, Councillor Maxine Crawley, as the guest of honour and the service will be conducted by the Rev. Roy Day, a Burma Campaign veteran.

During the service a bugler will sound the Last Post, followed by the Reveille when Standards will be lowered and then raised. The Salvation Army will also play music.

Mr Cox added: “Whilst no plans have been made for next year, the organisations to which we belong will, with the demise of their members, cease to exist.”

However, the Royal British Legion and the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers continue to welcome new members.