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First Minister honours Lancastria war heroes |
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Friday, 13 June 2008 |
The First Minister Alex Salmond has honoured the survivors and victims of HMT Lancastria at a commemorative medal presentation in Edinburgh.
The sinking of the Lancastria is the worst disaster in British maritime history. An estimated 4,000 lives were lost when it sank on 17 June 1940, around 400 of them Scots, after being struck by German bombers off the coast of St. Nazaire.
Salmond presented the commemorative medals, commissioned by the Scottish Government, to survivors and the families of victims at a reception held by the Lancastria Association of Scotland in the Scottish Parliament.
He said: “The sinking of HMT Lancastria resulted in the single largest loss of British lives in World War II and these commemorative medals aim to recognise the courage and sacrifice of those onboard.
“Every Scot who has made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of their nation, and the bravery and valour of those who have fought and still fight today, should be appropriately commemorated.
“It is a pleasure to present these commemorative medals, they serve not only to remember this extraordinary loss of life but also signify the Scottish Government's recognition for the survivors and families of victims that is so richly deserved after all these years.”
Readers have left 2 comments. 1. First Minister honours Lancastria war heroes
Michael Cowen, Unregistered Alex
Many, many thanks for presenting the medal to my Dad James Cowen. Dad and family were greatly honoured to be invited to a very special occasion and we all appreciate your warmth sincere support in the recognition of the survivors. Just hope that the British Government will take courage from your lead.
Michael Cowen
P.S. ( The name Cowen has Scottish roots means dry stone wall builder keep cows en )
2. First Minister honours Lancastria war heroes
David Dalrymple, Unregistered It has been my profound privelege to have worked with many survivors of the Lancastria in a docu/film about the tragedy 17th June 1940 due to be released later this year. After three years of filming I cannot believe that this British Government still holds a 'no comment', on this tragedy which still is counted as Britains Worst maritime Disaster-
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