On this day in history, millions across Britain and the Allied nations celebrated the end of World War II in Europe. After nearly six years of brutal conflict, Nazi Germany formally surrendered, and peace was declared across Europe. Streets filled with cheering crowds, church bells rang out, and people gathered around radios to hear Winston Churchill announce that the war in Europe was over.
As we reflect on the 80th anniversary, it’s not just a moment of celebration it’s a time to pause, remember, and honour.
We remember the extraordinary courage of the soldiers who fought on land, at sea, and in the air. We honour the civilians who endured years of bombing, rationing, and loss, and the communities who came together in remarkable acts of resilience and unity.
VE Day is also a time to reflect on the millions of lives lost in the conflict, and to recommit ourselves to the values of peace, freedom, and democracy that so many fought to protect.
In 2025, the UK marks this 80-year milestone with special commemorations, tributes to veterans, and public events that bring stories of that time to life. It’s a chance for younger generations to learn from the past and carry forward its lessons.
Let us never take peace for granted. Let us remember the sacrifices made for the freedoms we enjoy today. And let us honour the legacy of the wartime generation not just with words, but with actions that build a more peaceful world.