O
n Friday, 15th August, Somerset paid heartfelt tribute to the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, marking the formal end of World War II and honouring those who served in Asia. Members of the Lieutenancy attended commemorative events across the county, each reflecting solemn remembrance and community spirit.
In Weston-super-Mare, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant, Mr Ted Allen, joined a service at St John’s Church attended by veterans, local dignitaries, representatives from the Royal British Legion and Cadet Services, and members of the public. The service was followed by a flag-raising ceremony and a two-minute silence in the Italian Garden. A fly-past of five vintage wartime aircraft concluded the moving tribute to the ‘forgotten war’ in Asia.
The Whitchurch and Pensford Branch of the Royal British Legion held a parade and act of remembrance at their memorial garden. Around ninety attendees, including former service personnel, gathered for a morning service. The oldest veteran present was 100 years old. The Branch Chair spoke of the suffering endured by POWs in Asia, while Deputy Lieutenant Neil Dowdney reflected on the war’s end and the austerity faced on the Home Front.
In Taunton, Brigadier Nigel Beacom QVRM TD VR DL represented the Lord-Lieutenant at a series of events beginning with a flag-raising ceremony at County Hall. This was followed by a wreath-laying at the Vivary Park Memorial and a service of remembrance at Taunton Minster. WO Company Sergeant Major Emily Linn, one of the Lord-Lieutenant’s cadets, laid a wreath on behalf of the younger generation.
Later that evening, Brigadier Richard Toomey CBE DL attended a beacon lighting ceremony at Maidenbrook Country Park, where an information board was unveiled celebrating the legacy of Jackie Moggridge. A pioneering South African pilot, Jackie joined the Air Transport Auxiliary in 1940 and delivered over 1,500 aircraft during the war. After the war, Jackie settled in Taunton. She later became Britain’s first female commercial airline pilot in 1958. The board was unveiled by her grandson, honouring her remarkable achievements.
In Ilminster, Mrs Jane Sedgman JP DL joined a commemoration led by The Mayor, Councillor Brian Hamilton. Local dignitaries and residents gathered for a two-minute silence, followed by the planting of a memorial tree in honour of those who served in Asia.
These events across Somerset served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made and the enduring legacy of those who fought in the final chapter of World War II.
