On May 8, 2025, the United Kingdom marked the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day) with a series of poignant celebrations and remembrances across the nation. This day commemorates the surrender of German forces in World War II, which brought an end to the conflict in Europe. From ringing church bells to heartfelt speeches, the day was filled with a spirit of gratitude and reflection.
At the National Churchill Museum in Fulton, a special ceremony was held where bells rang in the historic church of St. Mary the Virgin, Aldermanbury. This church, which was damaged during the war, was shipped to Fulton and rebuilt as part of the museum. Timothy Riley, the Museum Director, emphasized the significance of this day, stating, "It was a jubilant day, in the UK, in the United States. Churchill was famously giving his V for victory sign, and this is a day that we remember the jubilance of the end of the war, but also remember and acknowledge those who didn't make it through the war."
Among those attending the celebration was 92-year-old Brenda Jones, who reflected on her memories of VE Day as an eight-year-old girl in London. “I mean, we couldn't take it in. We were all delighted, and we were a big group and just enjoying ourselves,” she recalled. Jones fondly remembered the sounds of German planes overhead as her family sought shelter in their bomb shelter. “They weren’t smooth like our planes were. They weren't smooth at all. So, we could identify them very easily,” she said, her memories vivid even after all these years.
Jones also highlighted the critical role of Winston Churchill during the war, expressing her belief that without his leadership and the involvement of the United States after 1941, the outcome could have been drastically different. "If he hadn't been there, I'm not so sure – and if the United States hadn't come with us at the end of 1941, I think we would have lost that war," she said. Her hope is that her story and those of her generation are passed down to future generations. "It worked out in our favor. It would have been a very different story if that hadn’t happened," she added.
Across the country, people gathered to listen to Churchill’s historic address broadcasted on VE Day in 1945. At 3 PM, as crowds in Norfolk and Suffolk tuned in, Churchill urged the nation to rejoice but also to remember the challenges that lay ahead. He stated, "We may allow ourselves a brief period of rejoicing, but let us not forget for a moment the toil and the effort that lie ahead. Japan with all her treachery and greed remains unsubdued." His speech concluded with a rallying cry: "Advance Britannia. Long live the cause of freedom. God save the King." Unfortunately, not everyone heard his message, as the City Council in Norwich failed to relay the broadcast, disappointing many.
The King also led the nation in honoring those who sacrificed for peace at a solemn service at Westminster Abbey. On this significant day, Charles placed a floral tribute at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, accompanied by a handwritten message that read: "We will never forget." A national two minutes of silence was observed, allowing attendees to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war.
Among the congregation were veterans who fought in the conflict, including 99-year-old Ken Hay, who served in the 4th Dorset infantry regiment. The service was attended by prominent figures such as the Queen, the Princess of Wales, the Princess Royal, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the Duke of Kent, and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The congregation was reminded of the enduring impact of the war as they listened to Churchill's radio broadcast announcing the end of hostilities, echoing the sentiments of a nation that had endured almost six years of conflict.
The service featured a procession of Second World War artifacts, including a child's gas mask, a sailor's cap, and an air raid warden's helmet, representing both the armed forces and the Home Front. The emotional weight of the ceremony was heightened by the performance of the wartime song "The White Cliffs Of Dover" by Zizi Strallen, which resonated deeply with attendees.
As the day unfolded, the King and other members of the royal family donned their finest attire, with the King wearing a lounge suit adorned with medals, while the Queen opted for a white crepe silk dress complemented by a black and white hat. The Prince of Wales also wore a lounge suit, showcasing various jubilee medals.
Reflecting on the significance of VE Day, Timothy Riley remarked, "Tremendous testament to the sacrifice of the greatest generation. Who helped us wage and win that war, so we have the democracy, liberty, and freedoms we enjoy today." The events of May 8, 2025, not only celebrated the victory over tyranny but also served as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the freedoms enjoyed today.
As Britain commemorates this historic day, it stands united in remembrance, honoring the past while looking forward to a future built on the values of democracy and liberty that were fought for so valiantly by those who came before.
