The commemorations, organised in partnership the Royal British Legion (Lisburn Branch) and the National Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Association (NMBVA), will pay tribute to all those who served in the Far East during the Second World War, as well as in later conflicts in Malaya and Borneo.
The day will begin with a solemn wreath laying ceremony at the Lisburn War Memorial, followed by a commemorative parade led by the NMBVA at Lagan Valley Island. The programme will conclude with a special service and exhibition at Lagan Valley Island, highlighting the extraordinary contributions of Professor Pantridge, who not only served with distinction during the war but went on to revolutionise emergency medicine with the invention of the portable defibrillator.
The Mayor of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, Alderman Amanda Grehan, said: “It is a privilege to mark this important milestone, 80 years since the end of the Second World War. We remember the courage, sacrifice and resilience of all who served, and reflect with pride on the legacy of Professor Frank Pantridge, whose impact continues to save lives across the world today.”
Chair of the VJ Day 80 Working Group and Deputy Mayor, Alderman Hazel Legge, added: “This anniversary allows us to honour not only the past but the enduring values of service and innovation that our veterans, like Professor Pantridge, represent. We invite the public to join us in remembrance and celebration.”
For more information on our VJ Day 80 commemorations, click here.