VE80
On Thursday 8th May, 2025, we observe the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Victory in Europe Day (VE) marked a significant step towards the end of the Second World War which had started six years earlier in 1939. It was an important moment for the people of Europe as Germany officially surrendered. People could look forward to once more being with their family and friends who would be returning from war. Conversely it was also a time to mourn those that would not be returning. Huge crowds gathered in the streets across the UK to celebrate with singing, dancing, bunting and street parties.
80 years on, with many of the veterans having since passed away as they reached their 90s and even 100s, it is now the responsibility of the younger generations to continue to remember this historic day.
The Importance of VE Day
VE Day celebrations are still a poignant and important time for many people in the UK and across Europe especially for those with family who fought in WWII or those currently involved with the armed forces. Here at Parvalux, Production Engineer, Mark Tilsed who has been an instructor of Dorset Army Cadet Force for 13 years and holds the rank of Capt – North Company 2IC / County Ten Tors Manager, feels VE Day is just as important today as it was in 1945. He said:
“For me personally, I have a lot of pride and strong feelings when it comes to VE day, since so many had sacrificed so much for the freedom which we have today.
Being associated with the British military gives me pride when I put on the uniform, and the young cadets who also put on the uniform feel the same. Being part of the parades can be a great honour and an act of remembrance, which I always carry.”
He adds that he believes it should remain an important day for the younger generations. The sea cadets he works with “are aware of the participation the British military had in VE Day and understand the relevance.”
However, he feels it is also incredibly relevant to younger people even if they are further removed from the war with no known relatives having fought in it, because “it was such a massive moment in history. I think that the spirit whether it be D-Day, VE or VJ Day should be told to everyone, as all mark a turning point in the world and should not be forgotten.”
Facts About the Second World War
4 RAF Airfields In Dorset Used During World War 2
Over 300 Vessels Set Sail From Poole Harbour in D-Day Embarkation
Over 1 M People Gathered In London to Celebrate VE Day in 1945
How VE Day shaped the modern world
On a national level VE Day was more than just the end of the War, a moment of celebration and the beginning of rebuilding European society. The end of the War also saw the creation of the United Nations, advancements in medicine and technology and a rise in democracy across all European nations. Additionally, Mark also feels that “lessons from WWII, marked by VE Day, still influence how militaries train and prepare. The emphasis on readiness, logistics, and coalition warfare stems directly from WWII strategies.”
Resilience, Unity and Sacrifice
Even in the complex, and often divided modern world, Mark believes the spirit of the Blitz that helped people reach VE Day is still present in society, albeit manifesting in different ways. He said:
“Resilience is still very present. We see it all the time, especially in moments of crisis. Think about how people rallied during the COVID-19 pandemic—healthcare workers, key workers, and communities stepped up in ways that echoed wartime perseverance. Or how nations respond to disasters like earthquakes, floods, or even wars in places like Ukraine.
After tragedies or global challenges, people often put aside differences to work in unity. You can see it in how countries send aid, how communities come together, or how shared causes like climate change spark international cooperation.”
Celebrating VE Day
Across the UK and Europe parades and events have been organised starting on Monday 5 May and continuing until 10 May.
On VE Day itself (8 May) the Poole branch of the Royal British Legion are presenting a wreath at the War Memorial in Poole Park, and there will be a beacon lighting ceremony in front of the BCP Council Civic Centre in Bournemouth. On the evening of 10 May Winton and Moordown Royal British Legion will also be holding an event with live entertainment and a chance to embrace the joy of 1945. Mark will be out on exercise on Okehampton Camp working with the regular army on a regional event called Ten Tors (ExWyvernTor) but claims he will “be having a toast to all the service personnel who fought for our freedom.”