Town Crier joins global 75th commemoration of VE Day on May 8
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The Toowoomba Region’s Town Crier Kevin Howarth tomorrow (Friday, May 8) will join a global chorus commemorating one of the most momentous days of World War II when he delivers a heartfelt tribute at Toowoomba’s Mother’s Memorial at 3pm.
Mr Howarth will join a worldwide program to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe), marking the end of World War II hostilities in Europe.
Mr Howarth said he had been practising a cry that had been written specially for the occasion.
“The Cry for Peace Around the World activity is one of two international commemorative events that is still taking place to mark the date, given the restrictions that have been enforced around public gatherings,” Mr Howarth said.
“I am honoured to join my fellow Town Criers across Australia and the world to proclaim the 75th anniversary of this memorable date.
“Five Town Criers from southern Queensland and more than a dozen from Australia and others in New Zealand will be among the first officials to ring their bells to start A Cry for Peace Around the World.
“More than 350 Criers from the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Canada and parts of continental Europe will recite the cry that recalls the sacrifice of military personnel and the efforts of citizens who kept the home fires burning.
“The cry captures the unbridled relief, joy and sadness that were associated with the end of the hostilities in Europe. It must be remembered that the wider World War II hostilities continued until the Japanese surrender on August 15, 1945.”
Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio said the commemorative activity meant the landmark anniversary would be recognised in a fitting manner, despite the ban on public gatherings.
“The Toowoomba Region and Australia still honours the service and sacrifice of veterans who played a vital part in the Second World War across Europe,” Mayor Antonio said.
“The ranks of these servicemen and women might be thinning, but the events and lessons of the Second World War remain a vivid part of our living memory.
“Just as we do every Anzac Day, this commemoration on May 8 serves as another reminder of how much was sacrificed and why we must serve the interests of peace across the world.”
On May 8, 1945 huge crowds across Britain gathered to dance, sing and rejoice at the news with bonfires lit across much of Occupied Europe and other celebrations in the United States and Australia.
British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, in a national broadcast on May 8, 1945, referred to “the evil-doers, who are now prostrate before us”.
View the Cry for Peace