News

Spirit of ’45 World War II Weekend Includes Local Ceremonies

SDPB Radio | By Jim Kent

Published August 14, 2015 at 2:55 AM CDT

Ceremonies are scheduled this weekend at the Black Hills National Cemetery outside Sturgis and the National Cemetery in Hot Springs. The gatherings are part of a nationwide commemorative event recognizing veterans of World War Two and their sacrifices.

The “Keep the Spirit of ’45 World War II 70^th Anniversary Weekend” is a grass roots effort taking place in small towns and big cities from coast-to-coast. Events start on August 14…the day Japan surrendered to the U.S.…and continue through Sunday.

Classic photograph entitled "Kissing The War Goodbye" shows a U.S. Navy sailor kissing a women in New York City's Times Square on V-J Day (Victory Over Japan Day) - August 14, 1945.

Activities include a “Kiss-In” at New York City’s Times Square, San Diego’s Greatest Generation Walk, flyovers by historic WWII planes, 1940s style swing dances; nationwide performances of “In The Mood’ and, of course, Rosie The Riveter Rallies.

Here in South Dakota, wreath laying ceremonies are planned at the Black Hills National Cemetery and at the Hot Springs National Cemetery for Sunday morning.

Cemetery spokesperson Terry Corkins says the goal of the ceremonies is to ensure that World War Two veterans are not forgotten.

“I think it’s important that we pay tribute to all of our veterans,” Corkins observes. “ And never forget the sacrifices that they made to make this country what it is today.”

More than 400,000 U.S. military personnel died during World War Two. Veterans of the conflict are currently passing at a rate of some 1,000 per day.

Corkins notes that the public is encouraged to attend the wreath laying ceremonies.