Garlieston is paying tribute, marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings
The southwest village played a crucial role in the Normandy landings.
Last updated 6th Jun 2024
A parade and wreath laying ceremony will be happening in Garlieston, remembering those who lost their lives on D-Day 80 years ago.
To this day, the D-Day landings of 6 June 1944 is still considered to be the largest seaborne invasion in history.
The village played a critical part in the Normandy landings which is why the significant anniversary is being held in this part of the region.
It's where the temporary, portable structures known as Mulberry Harbours - used to offload troops onto the beach - were designed and built in secret prior to the operation.
An exhibition - "Garlieston's Secret War" - is being held in the village hall, with a model display of the events at the harbour and big panels with photos and letters from World War II.
Roy Walter who works at the exhibition, explains what is happening at the commemorative event: ‘We have a parade on Thursday. We’ll start from the hall and there are two coach loads of veterans who will march from the village hall up to the War Memorial. There will be a formal ceremony at the War Memorial and once that has finished, they will march back to the village hall and disperse.’
He believes it’s paramount to continue marking the historical event and hopes the exhibition will help teach people what happened.
‘The further we get away from the second world war, the more distance the memories become, and people’s direct involvement disappears because obviously everyone is getting quite old now so the educational aspect of it is very important.’
Dumfries and Galloway Council Convener, Councillor Malcolm Johnstone, said: “Our council is proud to share our plans to mark the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings, and of the hugely significant role that Garlieston played in the D-Day Landings on 6th June 1944.
"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”.
Dumfries and Galloway Council Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Archie Dryburgh MBE, said: “As the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landings approaches, our council is preparing to honour the occasion.
"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”.