Council Marks eightieth Anniversary of VJ Day Paying Tribute to native battle hero Professor Frank Pantridge

The commemorations befell in partnership with the Royal British Legion (Lisburn Branch) and the National Malaya and Borneo Veterans’ Association (NMBVA).

The day started with a wreath-laying ceremony on the metropolis’s War Memorial, adopted by a parade at Lagan Valley Island led by the NMBVA and ending with a commemorative service and exhibition at Lagan Valley Island. 

The point of interest of the occasion was a shifting service on the Professor Frank Pantridge Memorial, the place wreaths had been laid by dignitaries and veterans in tribute to all who served within the Far East through the Second World War and in later conflicts in Malaya and Borneo.

The Right Worshipful the Mayor of LCCC, Alderman Amanda Grehan, laid a wreath on behalf of the council and stated, “It is a privilege to mark this milestone 80 years for the reason that finish of the Second World War. VJ Day introduced peace after unimaginable hardship, and it’s important that we keep in mind those that served, typically in harrowing circumstances, with the honour and gratitude they deserve.

“Today we also celebrate the life and legacy of Professor Frank Pantridge, born in Hillsborough, who, after surviving captivity in Singapore, returned to transform emergency medical care with the invention of the portable defibrillator. His courage continues to inspire generations.”

After laying a wreath on behalf of the UK Government, Northern Ireland Office Lords spokesperson, Baroness Anderson, stated:
“Marking the eightieth anniversary of VJ Day, it was really humbling to affix the Lisburn commemorations, to pay my respects on behalf of the UK Government, and keep in mind all those that made the last word sacrifice on our behalf, in addition to honouring the legacy of Professor Frank Pantridge.

“64,000 people from Northern Ireland served in the Second World War, including the Far East campaign. It is right we remember them, the sacrifices they and their loved ones made as well as all those who bravely served at home and overseas to secure our collective freedom and peace. It is also vital we learn from their stories, understand their experiences and ensure future generations appreciate the debt we owe those that served, as well as the realities of conflict.”

Deputy Mayor and VJ Day 80 Working Group Chair, Alderman Hazel Legge, stated: “This joint ceremony is a powerful reflection of the values we hold dear; service, sacrifice and community. It brings us together in remembrance of those who gave their all during the Second World War and recognises a local figure whose contribution to global health was born from the horrors of war.”