THE VJ memorial was very much a Portland-led initiative and was the idea of Portland Town mayor Rob Wild to remember those who gave their lives had fallen in the Far East during World War Two and who had contributed so much to the victory.
The memorial has appropriately been made from Portland stone with an inscription carved into the top facet.
It was intended that the event would be an entirely Portland affair but the invitation was extended to Weymouth so that they too could also commemorate VJ Day, a significant milestone in history.
The memorial also recognises the sacrifices and contributions made by the Merchant Navy, including those who were seconded to Royal Naval ships in order to supplement skills shortages.
The unveiling was conducted by Tony Cash and the mayor of Weymouth and Portland Christine James. Tony Cash a member of the Merchant Navy Association served as a rating in the Far East at the end of the War and, although a member of the Merchant Navy, was on a Royal Naval vessel.
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