Royals, politicians, and veterans gathered to honor the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two in Europe on what could potentially be the last major VE Day attended by veterans. The King and the Prince of Wales led a Service of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey, followed by a two-minute silence observed across the UK. As night descended over London, celebrations continued with a concert at Horse Guards Parade attended by 10,000 people. The King emphasized the importance of global commitment to restoring peace while acknowledging the service and sacrifice of the wartime generation.
During the event, various artists including Fleur East, Calum Scott, and The Darkness performed, alongside storytelling and tributes to veterans. The King highlighted that the debt owed to veterans could never truly be repaid, urging the public to carry their stories forward as the duty falls on the younger generation. As communities across the country engaged in acts of remembrance throughout the week, the King emphasized the importance of renewing global commitments to diplomacy and conflict prevention.
Earlier in the day, MPs and peers recreated a historic walk from Parliament to the abbey, mirroring the events that took place when victory in Europe was declared in 1945. Wreaths were laid, and an excerpt from Winston Churchill’s speech announcing Germany’s unconditional surrender echoed through the abbey. The former prime minister’s great-great-grandson, Alexander Churchill, lit a candle for peace, emphasizing the need for prayers for peace in Europe and around the world.
Children presented veterans with white roses, while service members showcased conflict artifacts, including a child’s gas mask. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer delivered a reading from the Bible, and various individuals read memoirs and re-dedications to peace. The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, expressed gratitude to those whose sacrifices paved the way for victory, urging a renewed commitment to peace in a world where such values are once again under threat.
After the service, royals engaged with World War Two veterans, exchanging memories and gratitude for their service. Among the attendees was 103-year-old RAF veteran Harry Winter, who shared his poignant experiences of being shot down over Germany and held as a prisoner of war until VE Day in 1945. D-Day veteran Peter Kent, aged 100, reflected on the significance of honoring those who served, recounting the harrowing experiences of war and the sacrifices made for the freedom enjoyed today.
Across the UK, churches and cathedrals rang their bells, reminiscent of the sounds that resonated in 1945. Scotland and Northern Ireland held commemorative events, including a tea dance in Belfast and a poignant display of knitted poppies in Wales. The Royal British Legion hosted a tea party with veterans at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, culminating in extended celebrations with pubs and bars permitted to stay open for two additional hours.
The 80th anniversary celebrations of VE Day commenced with a military procession and a Red Arrows flypast, drawing crowds near Buckingham Palace. An exhibit featuring nearly 30,000 ceramic poppies returned to the Tower of London, symbolizing remembrance and honoring the sacrifices made during World War Two.
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