Proclaiming 80th anniversary of D-Day

Central Coast Town Crier Stephen Clarke gave a Proclamation announcing the 80th Anniversary of D-Day on June 6 at the Gosford cenotaph.

D-Day, on June 6, 1944, marked the beginning of the end of WWII.

Gosford RSL Sub-Branch President Greg Mawson said many lost their lives on that day from nations all over the world, with the biggest armada of ships ever seen gathering to carry the military for the invasion.

“At Gosford, members of the Gosford RSL Sub-Branch and Gosford City Sub-Branch of the National Servicemen’s Association and Affiliates attended even though the weather was very inclement,” he said.

“Despite the rain, the Proclamation went ahead at the newly refurbished cenotaph.”

Internationally, Official Town Criers from England, Wales, the USA, the Channel Islands, Bermuda, Canada, New Zealand, Belgium and Australia performed Official D Day proclamations.

“Today, we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France, an incredible achievement in military planning and logistics, uniting brave service personnel from air, sea and land forces at the beginning of Operation Overlord,” the Proclamation said.

“By the day’s end, over 150 thousand Allied troops had successfully stormed the now famous Gold, Juno, Sword, Utah and Omaha beaches to achieve a toehold in France.

“In the weeks that followed, the Allies fought bitterly against a determined foe from the unforgiving countryside of Normandy to the liberation of Paris, two months later.

“We should all remember and never forget the selfless sacrifice and courage of all those involved, including Australian and New Zealand men and women and use this Commemoration to pay our tribute to those who gave so much to secure the freedom we all enjoy today.

“God save the King.

“God save Australia.”

The official proclamation was written by Jane Smith-Bognor Regis, Town Crier and Member of the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers (UK), and was officially approved.