14 June 2022 marks 40 years since the end of the Falklands War, a conflict in which Plymouth played a crucial role. 

Plymouth’s contribution to the liberation of the Falklands is a story that is not fully told. That is why this anniversary is so important that we not only remember those we lost in the South Atlantic but the incredible effort of those in our city to the war effort. From the dockyard workers who took on 24 hour shifts to get ships ready, to the military units who fought, to the communities who pulled together at home.

The 40th Anniversary is being celebrated by many throughout the UK. Here in Plymouth, the city will pay special commemoration to the brave soldiers who were involved. Plans to mark the anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands in Plymouth have been in preparation for six months where I will be chairing a special commemorative committee of veterans, the City Council and the Royal Navy.  

 These veteran-led events will seek to remember those lost in the Falklands Conflict in 1982 and the contribution made by Plymouth’s military and civilian population to the effort. It’s an opportunity to join the veterans and our armed forces in retelling the stories from 1982 and paying respects to those who never returned from the South Atlantic. 

Great Western Railway, the University of Plymouth, The Box, the Royal Navy and Royal Marines as well as veteran organisations from SAMA 82 to the Royal British Legion have been involved in the preparations for the anniversary events in Plymouth. There are planned events, activities, talks, walks and moments of remembrance taking place in the city for everyone to get involved in.  

A calendar of collated events has been created to help those who wish to join in with the commemoration and pay their thanks. I will be holding a Facebook Live event on the 16th of June at 6pm, open to anyone who wishes to join. I’m looking forward to the amazing events coming up and I hope to see the city join in with the celebrations.