‘This is a day to celebrate and preserve our history’

As celebrations started for the 80th anniversary of the island’s freedom from the German occupying forces, Deputy Trott addressed the States chamber yesterday at a special commemorative re-enactment of a meeting held on 8 May 1945, when Bailiff Victor Carey convened States members to to recognise that hostilities had ended.

Yesterday’s meeting began at 12pm with a two-minute silence to mark VE Day, before Bailiff Sir Richard McMahon read out speeches given in the States 80 years ago by Mr Carey, who at the time was acting as both Bailiff and Lt-Governor.

Deputy Trott then made a speech, before deputies, government officials and other esteemed guests, including Lt-Governor Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell and former Bailiffs Sir Geoffrey Rowland and Sir Richard Collas, gathered in the grand hall of the Royal Court to raise a glass to the 80th anniversary of the Liberation.

‘As we reflect on this 80th anniversary, I pay tribute to the bravery of all who fought and those who died in the Second World War to secure peace,’ Deputy Trott said.

‘I know that islanders today are grateful to the members of Guernsey’s community who fought or otherwise contributed to the war effort.

‘Liberation Day remains a cornerstone of our community’s identity, it is a day to celebrate and preserve our history, our culture and our shared values.

‘It reminds us of the dangers of conflict, war and fascism, and it teaches us that freedom, democracy and justice are never guaranteed.

‘As time moves forward, we must take care not to let the memories of the Occupation fade.’

The Bailiff said today was a time to reflect and celebrate what the events of 9 May 1945 still meant to the local community.

He said the visit of Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, for Liberation would enhance the day and mark the ‘longstanding’ relationship between Guernsey and the Crown, which the island continued to value.

States members re-enact 8 May 1945 meeting

The ‘unique’ significance of the States meeting yesterday to re-enact the speeches given in the chamber on 8 May 1945 was not lost on the deputies who were in attendance.

Liam McKenna described proceedings as ‘a special moment’.

‘It allowed us the chance to really think about what the 80th anniversary means to our island,’ he said.

‘The emotional delivery of the speeches from both the Bailiff and Deputy Trott made us feel like we were part of something very special.’

‘It was a real privilege to be there and I’m now very much looking forward to Liberation Day, particularly seeing the military vehicles out in force.’

John Gollop said the meeting allowed States members to fulfil the civic part of their public duties, as well as acknowledge and celebrate the freedoms they and the rest of the island’s population enjoyed.

‘It’s a brilliant way to end the current States term.

‘I thought the Bailiff and Deputy Trott’s speeches were excellent.’

He said the meeting reminded those present of the history of the days leading up to the Liberation.

‘The fact that the original meeting was held on 8 May and not 9 May, I’m not sure everybody would be familiar with that.

‘It also highlighted the role Victor Carey performed as both Bailiff and Lt-Governor, which can’t have been an easy one.’

Tina Bury said it was a privilege to have been a part of the meeting.

‘To me, Liberation Day is about hearing the personal stories and the individual experiences of those who were here during the Occupation.

‘Being here today is another example of that, hearing such important speeches and being taught a bit of the history at the same time.’

‘It’s truly a unique occasion and I’m grateful to be part of it.’