Sir Galahad Commemoration
A poignant service to mark the 35th anniversary of the sinking of the Sir Galahad has been held at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park, Pontypridd.
Despite the weather conditions, more than 100 people attended the event, organised by the Welsh Guards Association and supported by the Council.
Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf, Cllr Margaret Tegg, laid a wreath on behalf of the residents of the County Borough.
The Welsh Guards Association was formed in 1918, at the end of the First World War, with the primary aim of connecting past and serving members of the Welsh Guards and promoting their mutual interest and the welfare of the Regiment.
The Association, which currently has 17 branches, also assists with employment advice and opportunities.
The 3,000-tonne Sir Galahad logistics vessel, belonging to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, came under attack on June 8, 1982, during the Falklands War, and was bombed three times. A total of 48 Welsh Guards and crew died during the attack and the subsequent fire. Many more were injured.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Mayor, Cllr Margaret Tegg, said: “It is important that we all unite on occasions like this to reflect and remember those who lost their lives and those who have been injured during war and conflict.
“It was also fitting that the service was held at Ynysangharad War Memorial Park and all those who gathered there were united in their thoughts for those who died or were injured aboard the Sir Galahad.”
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council was one of the first local authorities in Wales to establish an Armed Forces Covenant. The Council has a proud record of valuing its Armed Forces, both past and present, and the Armed Forces Covenant takes forward the Council and County Borough’s objectives to support its Armed Forces community.
The Council is hosting its annual Armed Forces Day events in Aberdare on Saturday, July 1, with a Parade and Raising of the Flags taking place at Aberdare Park.
