80th Anniversary of VE/VJ Day
I welcome the announcement that the Government has plans for a series of events and celebrations to be held across the country, to mark the 80th Anniversary of both VE (Victory in Europe) day on 8th May 1945 and VJ Day (Victory Over Japan).
The defeat of fascism in Europe and in Asia stands to this day as one of our country's defining moments. The sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation will always help us take immense pride in people, communities and a nation coming together.
Just as huge crowds gathered outside to celebrate the end of war in 1945, the Labour Government is this year inviting the country to unite through a series of commemorations and celebrations, including a VE Day concert, military procession and flypast, nationwide street parties, and services at the National Memorial Arboretum and Westminster Abbey all of which will be available to the public through ticketed events, and broadcast on TV.
These celebrations will be an opportunity for generations to come together to share and hear local stories of wartime. Arts Council England will also work with arts organisations across the country using culture to tell the stories of our towns, cities and villages during the Second World War.
Everybody in Stockport has a direct connection to those who served in the Second World War, whether that be through family or our local community.
As we approach the 80th anniversary of VE/VJ, which may well be the last to feature those who directly contributed to the victory, it is our responsibility to keep their history alive.
I would like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to all veterans and serving personnel for their unwavering dedication, courage, and sacrifice in protecting our nation and I want to encourage anyone who can to get involved with a local event in Stockport to commemorate those who risked so much to secure our future.
If you want to get involved in a local or national event to mark VE and VJ Day, visit here: www.ve-vjday80.gov.uk for more information, ideas, and Government resources to advertise your event.