What is VE Day?

VE Day, or Victory in Europe Day, is observed on 8th May each year to commemorate the formal surrender of Nazi Germany in 1945, marking the end of World War II in Europe.

This day is a time to honour the courage and sacrifice of those not who only served in the Armed Forces but those keeping the home fires burning and the country from grinding to a standstill. In 2025, we will commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day. There are now very few surviving WWII Veterans, but their stories must live on as an important reminder of their sacrifices, and the importance of ensuring such dark times are never repeated.

The History of VE Day

On 7th May 1945, Nazi Germany officially surrendered, bringing an end to WWII. Winston Churchill addressed the nation on the 8th May declaring the end of war, sparking celebrations across the country. Street parties took place, people embraced strangers and music played in the streets, with many gathering in George Square in Glasgow, and in Princes Street in Edinburgh.

However, it was a day of mixed emotions. For those who had lost loved ones in the conflict, it was a time to reflect. Many people mourned the death of loved ones and relatives, or worried about those who were still overseas. For many, the jubilation as people celebrated VE Day was too much to bear and not something they could take part in.

In Britain, the strain wartime life, air raids, and the impact of rationing all left their mark on a weary population who knew there were more difficulties yet to come. Although the war in Europe was over, fighting continued in the Pacific until Japan's surrender (VJ Day) on 15th August 1945.

How is VE Day commemorated now?

VE Day remains an important National Day of Remembrance, with events held across the country.

A silence of two minutes is observed at 11am on 8th May, with people pausing to remember those who lost their lives. These commemorative services are often held at war memorials. Piper tributes, reflecting Scotland’s deep military traditions, are often heard at remembrance services.

Echoing the celebrations of 1945, street parties and community events bring people together in remembrance.

VE Day at Erskine

At Erskine Veterans Charity, we work hard to ensure that the sacrifices made by WWII Veterans are never forgotten. We are proud to share the stories of Veterans and their families from this era, serving as a poignant reminder of the hardships of war and the importance of ensuring such tragedies are never repeated. Throughout Erskine, Veterans will be able to join in with the many events marking the end of war in Europe. The commemoration of VE Day events will end as they began 80 years ago - with street party celebrations, to which Veterans, staff, families, volunteers will attend.

 The memory of all of those that served must be preserved, our stories must be shared when we are gone, and as a country we must educate the youth to ensure that the world never sees a repeat of the events of World War II and D-Day. It’s our duty to keep the past alive, so history does not repeat its darkest days.

- Albert Lamond (99) – D-Day Veteran

 How can you get involved?

Share your story
If your family has a connection to VE Day, share your story with our team so we can keep the memories alive for years to come. To share your story, email marketing@erskine.org

Donate
Erskine has provided support to over 105,000 Veterans since 1916. By donating here, you can support Erskine’s mission to ensure in helping Veterans and their families today.