GARLIESTON will be at the centre of the region’s D-Day commemorations this week thanks to its role in WWII.
A parade and wreath laying ceremony will take place at the war memorial there on Thursday afternoon to mark the 80th anniversary.
There will be display of John Webster Vintage Army Vehicles and pipers from the Lochryan Pipe Band. Children from local schools, community groups and council representatives will attend the event. Meanwhile, Wigtown Lord-Lieutenant Aileen Brewis will unveil a commemorative bench and address the parade.
The D-Day Landings of 6 June 1944 was the largest seaborne invasion in history involving many thousands. Along with the associated airborne operations, it marked the beginning of the liberation of France and western Europe.
However, in order to get supplies and other materials ashore after the landings, the military had been secretly planning, testing and developing a system of temporary portable harbours, known as the Mulberry Harbour And it was Garlieston Harbour which was chosen as the location for the secret trial runs of the prototype.
Dumfries and Galloway Council Convener, Councillor Malcolm Johnstone, said: “Our council is proud of the hugely significant role that Garlieston played in the D-Day Landings.
“This is an opportunity to remember the service and sacrifice of all those that have defended our freedoms and protected our way of life and to remember the many thousands of men and women who played such a vital role on that fateful day in 1944.”
Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE added: “We hope that many people will be able to support us on the day in commemorating the sacrifices that were made by so many of our comrades then, and in recognition of the continued active service of every soldier, sailor and aviator, and their families, who form part of our invaluable Armed Forces today.”
