Victory, 75 years, and what it meant to Britain

75 years ago tomorrow Britons took to the streets to celebrate ‘Victory in Europe’ following an iconic announcement from Prime Minister, Winston Churchill.

At 3pm, on 8th May 1945, he gave one of his most important addresses and concluded: ‘Advance Britannia! Long live the cause of freedom. God save the King!’

Tomorrow, the celebrations that had been in the making, will be very different from those planned with our freedom currently having its wings temporarily clipped. Yet, the sentiment behind the day remains the same and the message it represents should not be forgotten.

It is a day that marked a defining moment in our history. A day that shaped the future of generations; a day that brought new hope and vigour to people across the nation whilst reflecting on the turmoil of what had just been endured.

Many events have been cancelled but there are still some significant moments planned to take place.

11am – The nation will hold a two minute silence

3pm – ‘The Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW2’ will take place with people encouraged across the country to stand together, but apart, and raise a glass of a drink of their choice while saying the following toast: “To those who gave so much, we thank you.”

9pm – The Queen will address the nation, the moment that her father, King George VI, gave a radio address back in 1945. Her speech to mark the occasion will be made from Windsor Castle. It will then be followed by a
singalong of Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again” an iconic Second World War song.

These are just three of the main events that are encouraging participation and viewing from the nation as we reflect on this defining day in history and how it shaped our future. To think of how far we have come in that time in terms of technology, business, education, choice and travel is quite simply staggering.

We hope you enjoy VE Day, join in the socially distanced celebrations, and take a moment to reflect just what it meant to Britain.