This weekend saw two important anniversaries marked: 81 years since Operation Dynamo and 77 years since D-Day. Two major turning points in the Second World War. The former being a retreat which many saw as the point in the war where things were at their most desperate and defeat was inevitable, the latter being the beginning of the end.
Ms Gosal felt honoured that her first official engagement as an MSP was to join members of the Skylark IX trust, for the dedication of a bench to Geoff Bryden, one of the last Dunkirk veterans, a great supporter of the trust. Skylark IX trust formed a partnership with Alternatives, the drug rehabilitation charity bringing together a community, involving those side-lined by society with trustees who all bring their talents to ensure the Skylark IX’s story is shared and never forgotten. Not only is it giving the boat a second chance, but it will be helping some of the most vulnerable and marginalised people in our society learn new skills and get their lives back on track.
Pam Gosal, Scottish Conservative and Unionist MSP for West Scotland, commented:
“My first engagement was always going to be one that will stay with me; to hear the story of the little boat built for leisure, saving British soldiers from almost certain death or capture. She was found in the Leven, almost unsalvageable, and now she is helping people once again by providing the opportunity to teaching them new skills, aiding their recovery. I look forward to the next part of the Skylark IX story as they plan for their proposed Spirit of Skylark Centre.”
“77 years on from D-Day it is as important now as it has ever been to remember the brave men who stormed the beaches of Normandy. It was thanks to their sacrifice and courage that the Second World War finally came to an end soon after. We owe them a debt of gratitude that we can only repay by living life to the fullest and honouring them. For the second year in a row, we are unable to commemorate the day and their sacrifice properly. It’s up to all of us to make sure that, when we are able to, we do them all proud.”