VE Day – 80 years of peace
Victory in Europe was declared on 8 May 1945, after almost six long years of war. Thanks to the courage and fortitude of what has become known as the ‘Greatest generation’, the British way of life survived the Second World War and continues to inform much of how we live today.
The nation will come together to celebrate 80 years of peace, through the fun of street or garden parties to ceremony and pageantry, and at 9.30pm the lighting of a trail of beacons across the UK and overseas territories, symbolising the strength of our unity. This historic occasion will be marked by joy as well as reflection regarding the cost of that peace and security and is an opportunity to honour the past and look to the future with hopefulness.
VE Day wasn’t inevitable, and perhaps that’s why it matters. The UK stepped up to defend European nations and itself against the Nazis at a time when it was relatively unprepared for such an undertaking. Oddly, however, even setbacks such as the retreat from Dunkirk provided a sense of indominable spirit that carried through to the Battle of Britain and the Blitz, and all the way to the D-Day landings and re-invasion of Europe.
The anniversary of VE Day invites us to pause and consider the world as it is. Up until a few years ago it was unthinkable that we’d again see war on the continent of Europe, such as that currently being fought in Ukraine, even during the Cold War. The enduring message of the VE Day celebrations should be that a lasting peace is worth pursuing.
Meanwhile, current Service-leavers should note that the greatest generation also demonstrated many of the characteristics we assume Military veterans to have. The tradition of being a stalwart and having an uncompromising attitude regarding fighting for what’s right is their legacy, and one by which Service-leavers are inevitably judged to this day.
What this means in practical terms is that Service-leavers step into a well-worn reputation of being capable of taking on any number of demanding tasks and responsibilities. However, this isn’t mythmaking, since by applying outstanding Military-acquired skills and attributes, Service-leavers are endlessly equipped to aid employers looking for top quality candidates. From SMEs and franchisors, up to vast blue chip organisations, all have a shared respect for Veterans.
It’s the privilege of this generation that they have lived for so long without the blight of a world-consuming conflict. That is certainly worthy of celebration – as well as watchfulness and hope for a continuation of that peace.
Local events to mark the anniversary of VE Day can be found via: www.ve-vjday80.gov.uk/ve-day/
