On Thursday evening at the Usher Hall a commemorative event will remember those who took part in the D-Day landings.
Civilian and military musicians will take part in a concert with classical and big band pieces to remember Operation Overlord.
Former Royal Marine, Invictus Games Medallist, TV Presenter and Strictly Come Dancing Quarter-Finalist, JJ Chalmers, is hosting the event for Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland.
Amy Hawthorn from West Lothian is the Legion Scotland Sweetheart and she will sing at the event.
As well as musical performances there will be a narration of Scotland’s involvement in the operation from planning and preparations to landing on the beaches. This narration will feature first hand testimony by Scottish D-Day veterans. Legion Scotland and Poppyscotland are delighted that there will be Scottish D-Day veterans in attendance at the Usher Hall.
Doors open at 19:00, for a 19:30 start. The concert is split into two acts, and at the interval, there will be a silent auction on four D-Day themed pieces of art, which have kindly been donated by Lt Col Hugo Clark, the Head of Engagement and Outreach at the British Army’s Scottish HQ.
The CEO of Legion Scotland, Dr Claire Armstrong, OBE, said: “It is a pleasure to announce Amy Hawthorn – a long-time friend of Legion Scotland – as our final musical performer for this very special event.”
“Further, we are thrilled by the support of the public who have already almost sold out the iconic Usher Hall.
“This demonstrates the importance placed on Remembrance by the people of Scotland and their wish to support and show their gratitude to those who served.”
Host JJ Chalmers said: “It is so important that we mark the efforts and sacrifice of June 6th 1944 80 years later, particularly as the generation that served there begins to fade. It is important to remember. It is not enough that we don’t forget. We must take time to reflect, we must take time to celebrate their efforts, and commemorate those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.”
Poppyscotland’s Head of Fundraising and Learning, Gordon Michie, said: “The support for this event is second to none which is what we have come to expect of the Scottish public. Our nation’s roots are embedded in acts of Service, and our ties to the military have forever been strong. I also wish to thank Amy Hawthorn, long time friend of both charities, for joining the line-up of this event.
“Which is why I want to urge those thinking of attending to quickly purchase the few remaining tickets so as to avoid disappointment. We know that many, many people will be paying tribute to the D-Day generation across the country, and we are exceptionally proud of the partnership we have with Legion Scotland which has made Scotland’s Salute possible. Please do visit the Usher Hall’s ticket site to ensure you aren’t left disappointed. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. We hope to see you at the Usher Hall on the 6th of June.”
“But we wanted to put out one final call for people to purchase their tickets as soon as possible so as to not be left disappointed. We know that many people want to be there to say ‘thank you’ to the D-Day generation. I would urge anyone thinking of attending to book their ticket through the Usher Hall’s ticket site as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.”
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