VIDEO: Island falls silent to commemorate tragedies past and present

Tuesday 06 June 2017

Islanders today fell silent as a mark of respect to the victims of the London Bridge terror attack during a ceremony to commemorate those who paid the ultimate price to protect democracy in World War Two.

War veterans and members of the public gathered at the Cenotaph today – 73 years after the 1944 D-Day landings, which saw Allied troops storm the Normandy beaches in a bid to liberate Europe from German occupation.

Led by President Clive Kemp, members of the Jersey Normandy Veterans' Association attended the wreath-laying ceremony, which included a minute's silence for the fallen soldiers.

Video: Highlights from the D-Day commemoration held at 11:00 today.

“Despite the advancing years it is vitally important we continue to honour the memory of those who fought and died in the liberation of Europe more than 65 years ago.

"I am delighted the Parish can help Mr Kemp and his members on this special day,” Constable Crowcroft commented.

Pictured: Flags are lowered at the commemorative event.

But while the commemorative event was intended to mark the past tragedy, a minute’s silence was also held for those who lost their lives in Saturday’s terror attack, which killed seven and has injured around 50.

Speeches focused on acting as “one family” in the face of terror across “different peoples and races”, with BBC Radio Jersey presenter and local historian Chris Stone urging islanders to be grateful for the democracy afforded by the D-Day troops which terrorist forces have tried so hard to take away.

Pictured: The Island's heroes pose for a picture following the event.

A Vin D'Honneur was held following the event at the Town Hall.