On the historic occasion marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, King Charles and other prominent royals gathered alongside veterans and enthusiastic crowds to witness a magnificent military parade and flypast. This event kick-starts four days of heartfelt commemorations acknowledging the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945.
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Events have been meticulously organized by the UK government as the nation reflects on this pivotal moment, recognized not just in the UK, but in countries like France, the United States, and Russia.
As the celebrations commenced earlier today, the clock of Big Ben chimed at midday, heralding the occasion with excerpts from Winston Churchill’s iconic VE Day speech. “It’s a victory of the Great British nation as a whole. We were the first, in this ancient island, to draw the sword against tyranny,” his words resonated through the crowd.
Leading the procession, 100-year-old Normandy veteran Alan Kennett proudly marched down Whitehall, through Admiralty Arch, and towards Buckingham Palace. Alongside him, thirty other veterans attended official events today, with 26 viewing the procession in London. Among the distinguished marchers were Royal Navy veteran Albert Keir, aged 99; 101-year-olds Alfred Littlefield and Bernard Morgan, Army veterans Arthur Oborne and Tom Stonehouse, both 99, and Royal Marines veteran Francis James Grant, also 99—all heroes from D-Day.
More than 1,300 members of Britain’s armed forces paraded through central London, watched closely by King Charles, who saluted the troops as they passed. The royal family, including Queen Camilla, Prince William, and his family, stood alongside Prime Minister Keir Starmer and numerous veterans who played vital roles in the conflict.
In a poignant sign of solidarity, Ukrainian armed forces participated in the parade, proudly bearing their nation’s blue and yellow flag, showcasing Britain’s unwavering support amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.
In a heartfelt open letter to British veterans, Mr. Starmer emphasized, “I want you to know: the whole nation is inspired by the selfless dedication of your example. This week, the country will show you just how thankful we all are because we know that without your service, the freedom, peace, and joy these celebrations embody would not be possible.”
The original VE Day in 1945 saw jubilant celebrations unfold across London and Britain. Notably, a young Princess Elizabeth, then just 19, veiled her identity to join the revelry outside Buckingham Palace—an uncharacteristic moment of connection with the public during her 96 years.
The day’s festivities culminated with a spectacular flypast featuring historic military aircraft and the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows display team, which dazzled the crowd below, much to the delight of the royal family, who waved to onlookers from the palace balcony. The royals later hosted a tea party for approximately 50 veterans and war-ridden civilians.
Reflecting on the occasion, 99-year-old RAF veteran Dennis Bishop shared, “It’s important to remember some of the poor devils who didn’t make it like I did.”
Among other festivities, a gathering on HMS Belfast, one of the few surviving British warships from WWII, will take place on the banks of the Thames. Thousands across the nation are encouraged to participate in various parties, picnics, installations, and commemorations planned throughout the week, concluding with VE Day on Thursday.
Tomorrow, Queen Camilla will visit a poignant art installation of around 30,000 ceramic red poppies at the Tower of London, serving as symbols of remembrance for the fallen. The celebrations will draw to a close on Thursday with a national two-minute silence observed by the royals and government officials at noon, and pubs across the UK will remain open for two extra hours as part of the festivities.
“This 80th anniversary is a moment of national unity,” Mr. Starmer remarked. “A time to celebrate that hard-won peace, honor the memory of those who lost their lives, and remember the sacrifices made by so many to secure our freedom.”
Another poignant tribute will emerge through the installation of nearly 30,000 ceramic poppies at the Tower of London, designed to resemble a wound, reflecting the enduring sacrifices made during the war.
A solemn service at Westminster Abbey is set to begin with a national two-minute silence on Thursday, during which veterans will join the congregation. Following this, Horse Guards Parade will host a live concert, marking the grand finale of the commemorative events.
Additional reporting: PA
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
