Two special events will mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Middlesbrough.
Thursday June 6 marks eight decades since Allied forces launched a combined naval, air and land assault on Nazi-occupied France. The Normandy Landings, involving 156,000 troops, marked the start of a long campaign to liberate North-West Europe.
The extraordinary courage of Middlesbrough man Stanley Hollis would later see him become the only soldier to be awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery and actions on D-Day.
Company Sergeant Major Hollis, of 6th Battalion, The Green Howards, singlehandedly captured 30 German fighters during an intense day of fighting.
The town’s statue of Hollis, next to the Dorman Museum, will be lit up as part of one of two events on the anniversary.
Firstly, a D-Day proclamation will be made at 8am from the steps of Middlesbrough Town Hall.
Later on Thursday, a civic service will take place from 9pm at the Cenotaph. The service will include the International Beacon Lighting Ceremony at 9.15pm.
The proclamation will be read by Erik Scollay, the Council’s director of adult social care. Mr Scollay served in the Royal Naval Reserve as a student before joining the Royal Navy as an Officer, serving at sea and ashore before leaving as a Lieutenant to pursue a career in social care.
Cllr Linda Lewis, Armed Forces Champion at Middlesbrough Council, said: “The whole nation will remember the heroes of D-Day on this special anniversary and here in Middlesbrough we have the extra privilege of celebrating the story of Stan Hollis.
“I’m looking forward to gathering for the proclamation and beacon lighting ceremonies and would invite people to join us at the town hall and later at the Cenotaph.”
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “This is a special anniversary when we’ll reflect on the remarkable heroics of D-Day.
“It’s also an opportunity to acknowledge that our Armed Forces continue to operate around the world, protecting the country and defending peace.
“I’m pleased that we’re able to mark the past contributions to the Armed Forces by Council staff by having Erik Scollay read the proclamation on the anniversary.”
