VE Day Celebrations Mark 80 Years Since End of WWII in Europe
On 8 May 2025, the UK commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day), which marked the Allies’ acceptance of Nazi Germany’s surrender in 1945. The historic announcement by Winston Churchill galvanized the nation as he declared that official hostilities would cease at one minute past midnight.
Churchill’s emotive speeches rallied a nation battered by war, celebrating the resilience of the British people. “This is not victory of a party or of any class,” he proclaimed, but a triumph for the entire nation against tyranny. He urged future generations to remember their triumph over adversity, while also acknowledging the ongoing struggle against Japan, leading to Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) in August.
As the anniversary approaches, Prime Minister Keir Starmer highlights the selfless dedication of military personnel, unveiling a new £50 million support system for veterans. He emphasizes the enduring debt owed to those who fought, stating that VE Day represents a victory for good against evil.
Commemorative events will include a midday ceremony in Parliament Square, featuring a recitation of Churchill’s speech and a passing of the Commonwealth War Graves Torch for Peace to 100-year-old veteran Alan Kennett. The ceremonial procession will then journey from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace, led by the Household Cavalry and members of the armed forces, ensuring that the legacy of VE Day is passed down to younger generations.
At Buckingham Palace, the King and Queen, alongside the Prince and Princess of Wales, will host a tea party for veterans and members of the wartime generation, reinforcing the significance of this historic occasion. Further celebrations, including street parties and a spectacular flypast by the Red Arrows, are planned across the nation.
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