Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders is urging residents of the region to pause and reflect on Australia’s efforts in the Second World War as we mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific (VP DAY).
August 15, 1945 was the official end of a war in which nearly one million Australians served in the armed forces. More than 39,000 Australians lost their lives, more than 23,000 were wounded, and more than 30,000 were taken prisoner of war.
“This legacy is as strong in the Dubbo electorate today, as it was 75 years ago, when Victory in the Pacific was declared,” Mr Saunders said.
“We might be in the middle of a different battle against this pandemic but that should not prevent us from recognising those who gave up so much to protect our country and our freedom.
“What our communities are going through right now is very challenging but we must remember the bravery, courage and sacrifice from Australians who fought for their country in the Second World War.”
As a way of commemorating the anniversary, and in light of the COVID restrictions minimising formal events recognising the date, the NSW Government has compiled a digital catalogue of articles and videos of WWII veterans and widows telling their stories to ensure their efforts in the Second World War are not forgotten.
Stories from NSW veterans from the Second World War can be viewed on the NSW Government Stories page: