Posted on 08/18/2005 5:52:24 PM PDT by SandRat
NEW YORK (August 18, 2005) -- The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum, in conjunction with the History Channel, held a ceremony to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the victory in Japan and the end of World War II, known as VJ Day here Sunday.
Civilians, veterans, and service members to include the Marines of 6th Communication Battalion (6th Comm), were in attendance at the Museums celebration of Americas WWII victory.
Sgt. Michael Taft, member of the color guard and a satellite communications operator for 6th Comm, said the ceremony was an amazing opportunity for camaraderie with the veterans of WWII, and it gave him the feeling of a torch of duty passing from one generation of Marines to the next.
A lot of the veterans came up, thanked us for what we were doing, and told us stories about what they did in WWII. It felt great to be a part of their history so many people were there to celebrate the victories of the past, and we really felt like we belonged among them, said Taft, a Virginia Beach native.
The United States dropped an atomic bomb on August 6 and again on August 9, 1945, leaving a path of destruction in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan unlike anything known to mankind. The bombing resulted in Japans defeat and surrender, ending a war that had gripped the world since the attack of Pearl Harbor.
Denise Downing, director of public relations and event programming for the Intrepid Museum, commented on the impact of the celebration.
It was amazing, and the turnout was great. It is important for our veterans to be recognized for their sacrifices. This ceremony is just one way to do it, said Downing.
The History Channel broadcasted the ceremony later that evening.
Several illustrated ads depicted the efforts of the United States during World War II
Remember the Veterans
Thanks Harry!
That was a first rate program. I hope they give plenty of reruns. The Intrepid had a rich and colorful history. I am proud to have had a (very small)part in it.
BTTT!!!!!!
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