Council marks 80th anniversary of VE Day
The Vale of Glamorgan Council marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day today with a series of commemorative events to honour the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in the second world war.
Council officials and veterans began the day by raising the VE Day flag at the forecourt of the Civic Offices, symbolising the enduring gratitude for the peace secured eight decades ago today.
The flag-raising was followed by a moving service of remembrance at the Cenotaph at Barry’s Memorial Hall, organised in partnership with the Royal British Legion, Barry.
The service was attended by local dignitaries, residents, and two of Barry’s most distinguished veterans. Among them was Joe Norton, who at nearly 99 years old is Barry’s eldest surviving Second World War veteran. Joe joined the Merchant Navy at just 16 and vividly recalls VE Day in 1945, when his ship had just docked in Genoa, Italy. “We watched the locals celebrating and marching through the town,” he shared, reflecting on the moment peace was declared in Europe.
Also in attendance was Jasper Payne, aged 93, the last surviving Welsh veteran of the Kenyan campaign. At 21, Jasper was deployed to Kenya as a carpenter and witnessed harrowing scenes during his service. His presence today served as a powerful reminder of the many theatres of conflict in which Welsh servicemen and women played vital roles.
At 12:00pm, those who attended the service and Council employees joined the nation in observing a two-minute silence, paying tribute to all those who fought and fell in the pursuit of freedom.
Cllr Lis Burnett, Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said:"Today we remember not only the end of a devastating war but also the courage, resilience, and unity that brought us through it. We are deeply honoured to have Joe and Jasper with us — living links to our shared history and heroes in every sense."
"On behalf of the Council, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all who attended and contributed to today’s commemorations. Your presence ensures that the legacy of those who served lives on in the hearts of future generations."