On 8th May 1945, the guns fell silent across Europe as Germany’s unconditional surrender was formally accepted, and after nearly six years of devastating conflict, the Second World War in Europe had ended. Today marks the 81st anniversary of VE Day (Victory in Europe Day).
Eight decades later, we continue to mark this day as a reminder of the sacrifice and courage shown by those who fought for our freedom. VE Day reminds us why supporting those who have served matters not just during wartime, but long after the fighting ends.
Today, we’re reflecting on what VE Day meant, why we still celebrate it, and what it means for veterans today.
What Happened on VE Day?
On 7th May 1945, Germany signed an unconditional surrender at Allied headquarters in Reims, France. The surrender would take effect the following day, 8th May 1945, and that same day, it was announced that 8th May would be a national holiday across Britain.
Prime Minister Winston Churchill took action to ensure celebrations would go smoothly, including contacting the Ministry of Food to make sure there would be enough beer to go around! (History.co.uk)
At 3 pm on 8th May, Churchill announced the end of the war in Europe via radio broadcast. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony with Churchill to wave to jubilant crowds below. In a remarkable moment, Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth II) celebrated anonymously among the crowds, mingling with the public in disguise to experience the historic moment firsthand. (Imperial War Museum)
Across Britain, street parties erupted, church bells rang, and people celebrated with a mixture of joy and relief. In London, crowds gathered at Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, and Piccadilly Circus.
Social rules were relaxed for the occasion: people splashed in fountains, lit bonfires in London’s parks, danced in the streets, and even slept outdoors after long nights of celebration (History.co.uk). Police allowed the revelry, and remarkably, few problems were reported despite the scale of the celebration.
Why Do We Celebrate VE Day?
VE Day marks the end of nearly six years of war in Europe that claimed millions of lives. While the war in the Pacific would continue until Japan’s surrender in August 1945, VE Day represented a turning point: the beginning of peace in Europe and hope for complete victory.
It represents victory over tyranny and oppression, but even more than that, VE Day represents the unimaginable strength and sacrifice of those who served and those who supported the war effort at home. We celebrate VE Day to honour the memory of those who died fighting for freedom and the civilians who endured bombing, rationing, loss, and fear. We celebrate so that we remember the peace and freedom that victory secured.
Perhaps most importantly, we celebrate to ensure younger generations understand what was fought for. As the generation that fought in WWII diminishes, VE Day becomes even more important as a reminder of our responsibility to carry their memory forward by telling their stories.
VE Day and Care after Combat’s Mission
Those who returned from serving in the Second World War faced immense challenges rebuilding their lives. Many carried physical and psychological wounds that lasted decades.
Housing shortages meant some veterans struggled to find homes, and what we now recognise as PTSD was then called ‘shell shock’ or ‘battle fatigue,’ and mental health support was limited.
This is why Care after Combat exists. We support veterans who are experiencing some of life’s most difficult circumstances: involvement with the justice system, often compounded by mental health challenges, addiction, homelessness, or isolation.
For many veterans, the battle doesn’t end after their service ends.
Our commitment is to ensure that veterans receive the support they need, for as long as they need it. We believe that honouring their service means providing practical, consistent support to veterans facing challenges today and recognising that the sacrifices made during service don’t end when uniforms are hung up.
Learn more about our mission and how we support veterans.
If you’re a veteran struggling, please know that support is available. If you know a veteran who might need help, please share this information.
This VE Day, let’s honour the past by supporting veterans in the present. Because remembering service means supporting those who served, not just on commemoration days, but every day.