Wednesday 27 August 2008

Liberation

24th August, 1944 was the day when Opio was liberated by the allies. A commemoration ceremony is held on the closest Sunday and entails the laying of a wreath and a speech by the Mayor and the running up of the British, American and Canadian flags.
A lady I know who lives in the village was 14 at the time and she told me how when they heard the ringing of the bells and the marching feet she and her little sister ran to the road to see what was happening. She says they couldn't believe the soldiers throwing chocolates and candy into the air and were a little wary of gathering up the goodies...

4 comments:

Virginia said...

So nice to know that this is still such a special and memorable day for this town. A lovely memorial indeed.

Janet said...

So glad this is still remembered!

Kim said...

A lovely remembrance photo. I enjoyed hearing your neighbor's story of seeing the soldiers yet not trusting the offerings. What a sight for a 14 year old to witness. My father, uncle, and father-in-law all were in France when the occupation was ended, and they each remember the joy of the people that they witnessed. My uncle said he even got a few hugs, kisses and handshakes from people as they marched along.
-Kim
Seattle Daily Photo

Jane Hards Photography said...

It's so wonderful to see it's not only maintained but not vanadlised as it not doubt would in the UK.