I was honoured to participate in a number of VP Day events over the past three days. Victory in the Pacific Day was commemorated yesterday and celebrates the Japanese unconditional surrender. 
For Australians the day is particularly poignant as it commemorates the end to the direct threat to Australia's homeland, the end of fighting for thousands of men overseas in the Pacific and most emotionally the liberation of thousands more of Australian prisoners of war held by the Japanese. It represents the return to normality for the country.
On a very chilly Saturday morning I participated in the review of the VP day parade for veterans marching through the city along George Street. I agree with those disappointed with the thin crowds that the parade should have been approved for the actual day - being Monday and held at lunch time to coincide with the Cenotaph service. The Governor General (pictured with Mallard) took the salute and afterwards we were privileged to enjoy morning tea with some of the diggers. A small aside and highlight for the morning was a digger slipping a nip of rum into his orange juice at Town Hall - warding off that biting chill! 
I was honoured to represent the Lord Mayor and City of Sydney at the Martin Place Cenotaph yesterday as we commemorated the end of war in the Pacific. The City laid a wreath alongside the new Premier and John Ryan MLC representing the NSW Opposition. As we prayed and sang hymns I gave thought to my own family and grandfather who served in the 11th Field Ambulance in New Guinea and the City of Sydney Council staff who served and many who did not return from WW2. A large memorial to their service is located in the portico at the Town Hall entry reminding me of their sacrifice each day. 
I also recalled the efforts of those at home including the wives of the men away fighting and those in the essential services including local government. Finally my mind turned to those unforgettable images from Martin Place 60 years ago as tickertape and dancing swept the city in joyous celebrations. 
It would only be a few months before troop ships would return with the City's loved ones. A special day and one to remember especially as the ranks of veterans from WW2 thin dramatically 'as those that are left grow old.'
