The Falklands war took place between Argentina and the United Kingdom in 1982 over two British Dependant territories in the South Atlantic: the Falkland Islands and its territorial dependency, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands.
It has been 40 years since the war in the Falkland Islands came to an end. Held every year on 14 June, Liberation Day commemorates the end of the occupation of the islands by Argentina in 1982.
Observances include many Thanksgiving Services, Wreath laying and Military Parades which take place across the UK, the Falkland Islands and Southern Territories.
In 2022, we observe the 40th Anniversary and remember the men and women sent to defend the occupants of the islands and territories, those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and never returned and their families.
The Falklands Islands 40th Anniversary Service took place on 4th May 2022 at the “Home of Service Police” and held in Southwick Park Memorial Church.
Attendees included:
Vice Admiral Sir Alan Massey, The Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire Mr Nigel Atkinson, Wing Commander Mile Alabaster, Commandant DSPG, Lieutenant Commander Michelle Thompson, Executive Officer DPSG, Reverend Chatfield, Chaplain DSPG, Mr Charles Threlfall, Lecturer, Capt Leo Westland RMP, President RBRNPA David S C Lodrick.
The day began with a gathering in Southwick House before , moving across to the Brian Welsh Theatre to receive an exemplary talk by lecturer Charles Threlfall who gave details and background information and insights, strategic and personal to the Falkands War, to the full room of attentive attendees, Executive, Serving Personnel, Veterans and RBRNPA members.
A dedication and Remembrance Service followed at the Southwick Park Chapel, joined by onsite personnel and Executives remembering MAA Brian Welsh, family and friends in the commemorations before returning to the RNPRB Museum to catch up with colleagues and friends with the opportunity to view the remarkable artefacts, and items of historical note, diligently managed and presented by the RNPRB Museum Curator Mr William Dick.
“Today we remember our fallen colleague Master at Arms Brian Welsh who on this day 40 years ago made the ultimate sacrifice on board HMS Sheffield in the Falklands conflict. We will remember them”. Provost Marshal Navy – Cdr Dean Oakey.
Falklands Day is the celebration of the first sighting of the Falkland Islands by John Davis in 1592, and is celebrated on 14 August. It was once seen as the national day of the Falklands, but has largely been replaced by Liberation Day 14 June, which commemorates the end of the Falklands War.
A small selection of photographs from the day. Additional photographs available in the Members Gallery.
Remembrance. The Falklands War 40 Years on – 2022.
