JOHNSTONE cadets celebrated the 75th anniversary of VE Day by taking part in a mass salute on their doorsteps.

The meaningful gesture, which took place last Friday at 8am across the country, was intended to honour those who sacrificed their lives during the Second World War.

Recruits from the Johnstone Royal Engineers in the West of Scotland Lowland Kohima Group, which musters at the Army reserve centre in Hawkhead Road, Paisley, took part in the salute.

The cadets are named in honour of the Battle of Kohima – a decisive Second World War confrontation in which British and Indian troops turned back the invading Imperial Japanese Army.

Major Lynette Brough, battalion development officer, commended the army cadet force for paying their respects to those who had served their country.

“The salute went very well,” said Major Brough (pictured, top right). “All the cadets and adults were very proud to be able to take part.

“The values set before us, such as courage, strength, camaraderie and determination, by those who served in the Second World War remain at the forefront of the cadet vision.

“We remember the heroism of those who bought today’s freedoms though their actions 75 years ago.”

The cadets normally gather on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7pm but meetings are on hold until Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted.

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