Battle of the Atlantic surrender commemorated in Derry's Ebrington Square
Eight German U-boats surrendered to Admiral Sir Max Horton at Lisahally on May 14, 1945
Ebrington Square in Derry stepped 80 years back in time yesterday with a special commemoration event to mark one of the most significant events in world history, the surrender of the Battle of the Atlantic.
While the world has been reflecting this month on the 80th anniversary of VE Day, the occasion was marked locally by reflecting on the city’s role, and the moment when Derry made the headlines across the globe.
On May 14th 1945, the world looked on as the first eight German U-boats surrendered to Admiral Sir Max Horton at Lisahally and the German crew were marched through Ebrington Square, where there was relief and jubilation that the prolonged conflict had come to an end.
The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, joined the Swingtime Starlets at Ebrington along with living history actors to retell the story and give people a glimpse of 1945 Derry through the music and fashion from the day.
There was a whole host of family fun activities throughout the day and visitors had the opportunity to view artefacts from the Tower Museum’s World War II collection.