​BRAMPTON, ON (August 27, 2020) – On Wednesday, September 2, the City of Brampton will commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the End of World War II. Brampton’s Veterans of War as well as those who made the ultimate sacrifice will be honoured on the City’s Brampton Remembers webpage, and flags at all City of Brampton facilities will be at half-mast.

On September 2, the Brampton Remembers webpage will feature video messages from Mayor Patrick Brown and Brampton WWII Veterans, Pilot Officer Bill Burrell and the late Colonel Edward Conover, as well as more information on the history of this important anniversary.

Photos and names of Bramptonians who served in the Second World War will also be shared on September 2.

The community is welcome to learn more and share their memories and condolences online at www.brampton.ca/bramptonremembers on September 2.

Background

The City of Brampton will commemorate the official end of the Second World War, which took place on September 2, 1945, with the surrender of Japan. While Canadian Forces did not serve in the Pacific theatre, except in Hong Kong, many residents of Brampton served in the European theatre of the war, and a significant number of Bramptonians also served in the Pacific theatre with the forces of our Allied Countries.

On September 2, the City will commemorate the service of all Bramptonians and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve and defend the freedoms we have today.

Quotes

“The Second World War ended 75 years ago, and it changed the world, including many lives in Brampton. I am grateful to all those who selflessly served in the war – it is because of them that we enjoy our freedom today. While we cannot gather in person to commemorate this important part of our history, I ask everyone to visit the Brampton Remembers webpage on September 2 to honour the end of the Second World War.”

- Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

“While we may not be able to gather in person to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of the End of the Second World War, it is important that we continue to remember this important moment in our history. City staff have created a special online space as a tribute, with video messages, photos, a book of condolences and more. Please honour the veterans and victims of the war by visiting the Brampton Remembers webpage on September 2.”

- David Barrick, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton

“I wish to thank the City of Brampton for its commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the End of World War II. As we have Veterans in Brampton who served in both theatres of the conflict, it is important to remember their service and the cost of it to them and their families. It is also important to acknowledge the service of the women of this city who made outstanding contributions to the war effort, particularly in the aircraft factories in Malton, or who served in uniform during this conflict. We especially honour those of this city who made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve and protect the freedoms we enjoy today. Lest we forget.”

- Henry F. Verschuren CD, Parade Commander, Maj. Wm Dwight Sharpe Royal Canadian Legion Branch 15

“On the 75th Anniversary of the End of World War II, the members of Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 609, would like to reflect on the sacrifices of the men and women that serviced for Canada. We remember those that paid the ultimate sacrifice and never returned home. These are the ones who remain in Europe, Africa, Asia and the ones that were never located. We also remember those veterans that returned home and are no longer with us. We also thank those that are still with us, even though their bodies are weaker, their spirit should be an inspiration to us all.”

- Paul R. Ackermann, Sgt-at-Arms, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 609