Last Sunday, a poignant moment unfolded as T.S Queen Elizabeth, paused to pay tribute to the victims of the Clydebank Blitz. This solemn gesture brought to light the harrowing events of March 1941 when Clydebank, a bustling hub of the shipbuilding industry during World War II, fell victim to devastating Luftwaffe bombings.
During those two fateful nights, the tranquil streets of Clydebank were transformed into scenes of chaos and destruction. The relentless bombings claimed the lives of 528 people, with scores more left severely wounded. However, the true extent of the tragedy is believed to be even greater, as the death toll failed to account for civilians who succumbed to their injuries in the aftermath.
Amidst the chaos, a glimmer of heroism emerged in the form of the Polish destroyer, ORP Piorun. Anchored at Clydebank during the attacks, Captain Eugeniusz Pławski orchestrated a coordinated defense of the city. His brave actions, alongside the crew of ORP Piorun, played a pivotal role in the defense of Clydebank, offering a beacon of hope amidst the darkness of war.
To commemorate this act of valour and solidarity, a memorial stands proudly at Solidarity Square, opposite the Town Hall. Here, the cadets of Clydebank Sea Cadets joined in paying tribute, reaffirming the town's enduring connection with ORP Piorun and expressing gratitude to its courageous crew.
The tribute paid by T.S Queen Elizabeth and her cadets serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and spirit of the Clydebank community in the face of adversity. As we honour the memory of those who perished during the Clydebank Blitz, we also pay homage to the unsung heroes who bravely defended our town, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.