VJ Day, a celebration of peace – Deputy Mayor
As an eight-year-old, Deputy Mayor Carole Evans was among thousands of Christchurch residents crammed into Cathedral Square for VJ Day (Victory over Japan) celebrations to signal the end of World War II.
On 14 August she will be there again to mark VJ Day’s 60th Anniversary.
“I remember the day (August 15, 1945) so vividly. There were bells and flags everywhere and plenty of noise. The crowd was very boxed in and we were so happy the war was over and very excited to be celebrating,” she says.
Cr Evans says the meaning of VJ Day has also changed somewhat from that of 60 years ago.
“The message of VJ Day should now be that of world peace rather than victory over Japan. There will be 80-year-old soldiers parading on VJ Day — they didn’t fight for victory over Japan, they fought for world peace.”
Cr Evans also says that the 14 August celebration will be a chance for young people to join in the parade and see what it really means to these people.
VJ DAY CELEBRATIONS
On the morning of Sunday, 14 August, all residents of Christchurch are invited to a Christchurch City Council-supported VJ Day (Victory over Japan) 60 th Anniversary Parade. Period costume is encouraged.
A march will start at 9.30am from the Bridge of Remembrance and finish at Cathedral Square. After the march there will be a welcome, short commemoration and speeches (including Mayor Garry Moore) from 10.10am-11am. The Cathedral bells will then ring out at 11am, being the ‘time of peace’ 60 years ago.
There will also be a display and fun family expo in North Hagley Park during the afternoon.
If you are interested in finding out more about participation, or in obtaining a brochure, contact Clinton McInnes at the Red Cross by fax 339 7400, phone 339 7111, or email clint.mcinnes@redcross.org.nz |
