Carlisle’s MP has paid tribute to the servicemen of Carlisle’s Border Regiment who played a critical part in the Allied Victory over Japan in the Second World War.
The 80th anniversary of VJ Day is on August 15. Men from the 2nd, 4th and 9th battalions of the Border Regiment continued to fight in the Pacific after guns fell silent in Europe in May 1945.
Julie Minns, Carlisle MP, said: “On this the 80th anniversary of VJ day, I wish to place on record my thanks and remembrance of those men from Carlisle and North Cumbria who fought through floods, jungles, and monsoons in Burma and India.
“Their tenacity helped stall and eventually defeat Japanese advances at Imphal, Meiktila and beyond.
“Their perseverance from Normandy beachheads to Pacific battles will always be remembered, especially those who never returned to see their homes again.”
The 4th Battalion Border Regiment formed part of the elite Chindit columns operating behind Japanese lines in Burma.
While in Imphal in East India, troops from the 2nd and 9th Battalions of the Border Regiment joined forces with Indian and East African divisions to resist the Japanese advance.
There is a planned parade at Carlisle city centre war memorial at noon on August 15.
Ms Minns added: “With few veterans from the Second World War now remaining, VJ Day is an important moment to honour and remember the bravery, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of those, from our city, county and country, and our allies around the world, who gave their today for our tomorrow.”
