London: King Charles is set to host a special VE Day tea party with distinguished guests, including Second World War veterans and evacuees. The event is part of national celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Allies’ victory in Europe.
Among the attendees is a 99-year-old veteran who took part in the D-Day landings and a 100-year-old woman who served in the Special Operations Executive, known as Churchill’s Secret Army, for covert missions during the war.
The event, attended by the Royal Family and in collaboration with the Royal British Legion, is described as one of the last major national opportunities to honor those still alive who served during World War Two.
Mark Atkinson, director general of the Royal British Legion, expressed pride in the organization’s involvement in the commemorations, underlining the importance of paying tribute to those who helped secure victory in 1945. Evacuees and veterans who remained in conflict zones after VE Day are also expected to be present.
The Royal Family will observe a grand military procession followed by an RAF flypast at 12pm. This year’s remembrance is particularly poignant, as it marks the first major VE Day anniversary without any royals who stood on Buckingham Palace’s balcony on May 8, 1945, including the late Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in 2022.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer paid tribute to veterans in an open letter, expressing gratitude for their ‘selfless dedication’ and emphasizing the global impact of their efforts. Prime Minister described WWII as not just a British victory but a triumph of good over hatred, tyranny, and evil.
Starmer said that their service embodies ‘the best of who we are,’ and reminded the public that the freedoms and joys of today are thanks to their sacrifices.
Commemorative events will continue throughout the week. On Thursday, May 8th, exactly 80 years after Germany’s formal surrender, a national service of commemoration will be held at Westminster Abbey.
This solemn ceremony will include a two-minute silence across the country. Thousands are expected to gather in London to witness the procession and flypast, while pubs in England and Wales will stay open two hours later than usual to allow more time for celebration.
The day’s commemorations will begin with a rendition of Sir Winston Churchill’s 1945 victory speech, voiced by actor Timothy Spall. Personnel from the UK’s NATO allies, including the United States, France, and Germany, will take part in the London events.
Among the many stories being remembered is that of 101-year-old codebreaker Pat Owtram, who recalled a meaningful encounter with Churchill, and RAF pilot Colin Bell, who flew over 50 bombing raids during the war. Their testimonies are helping to keep the spirit of VE Day alive for new generations.
ALSO READ | Trump faces Catholic backlash for AI image as Pope
