Communications Officer
Members of the Corps supported the VE80 City of London Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at St Paul's, London on Thursday 8 May. FANYs provided support with ushering duties to the special service that included readings, music and bespoke prayers to celebrate the resilience and fortitude of the people of London. The service also featured an act of commemoration for the Fallen and a time of reflection on present-day conflicts and specially selected choral works.
Following the service there was a short lamp lighting ceremony and blessing on the West Steps and the Cathedral bells were part of the national bell ringing at 18.30. In front of the West Steps, visitors can see a replica Spitfire and find out more about its role in the Second World War.
Corps Commanding Officer, Lisa Giles, said
“It is an absolute honour to have attended the Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at St. Paul’s today to remember 80 years since VE Day. We are very proud of our FANY fore-sisters’ service throughout the Second World War; over 6,000 women were FANYs and they served in a range of different roles within the SOE and across Burma, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaya, Japan and the East Indies.
“This week has provided an important opportunity to commemorate the service given by so many people, and to remember the sacrifices that so many had to make. It is also a chance to reflect on the inspiration provided by so many FANYs who served before us, and to take courage from their bravery and valour.”