UK Marks VE Day 80th Anniversary with Grand Tributes and Emotional Memories

UK marks VE Day 80th anniversary in an emotional and grand celebration, uniting generations in remembrance and tribute. As Big Ben struck noon and the Cenotaph stood draped in the Union Flag, central London came alive with military parades, flypasts, and heartfelt homage to those who endured World War II.

The spotlight shone brightly on the dwindling number of Second World War veterans, including 100-year-old Alan Kennett, who launched the parade after receiving the Commonwealth War Graves torch for peace. Reflecting on VE Day in 1945, Kennett recalled how joy erupted in a German cinema when the war’s end was announced.

This first of four days of commemorations included a 1,300-person military procession, a Lancaster Bomber flypast, and massed pipes and drums. The parade began beneath Churchill’s statue and ended before Buckingham Palace, where the King, Queen, and Prime Minister Keir Starmer joined thousands on The Mall to witness the historic moment.

Prince William emphasized the importance of passing these wartime stories to younger generations, with Prince George attending to hear firsthand accounts. A palace tea party hosted by the royals honored 30 veterans aged 98 to 104 and wartime evacuees. Guests included members of Churchill’s secret SOE, Desert Rats, and D-day veterans.

Actor Timothy Spall powerfully read from Churchill’s victory speech, and guests at Downing Street were treated to traditional fare like Victoria sponge and pork pies. A flypast of 23 aircraft, including the Red Arrows, painted the sky in patriotic colors.

As the UK marks VE Day 80th anniversary, it serves not only as a celebration of victory, but also as a solemn promise to remember and learn, ensuring such horrors are never repeated.