Multitudes convene in London to commemorate the 80th year since VE Day victory celebrations.
🇬🇧 London kicked off four spectacular days on Monday, celebrating the 80th anniversary of VE Day. The city buzzed with energy as British, NATO, and Ukrainian troops marched in unison, with King Charles III presiding over the parade.
Thousands of people flocked to the streets around the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace, eager to witness the historic event. The parade showcased an incredible display of camaraderie and pride as over 1,300 British and allied troops, including troops from NATO allies and Ukraine, marched in a grand procession.
The festivities began with Big Ben tolling noon, followed by actor Timothy Spall reciting the triumphant speech delivered by then-Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill in 1945. As a touching tribute, the Cenotaph, the national war memorial, was adorned with Union Jack flags for the first time since it was unveiled by King George V in 1920, two years after the end of World War I.
The march commenced in Parliament Square and ended at Buckingham Palace, where King Charles III saluted the troops. Remarkable moments were shared throughout the day as veterans met with the royal family, including 99-year-old Robert Piper and 98-year-old Joy Trew. The King even took the time to adjust Trew's wheelchair blanket to ensure her comfort.
Prince George, with a keen interest in wartime history, even had the opportunity to meet a 101-year-old veteran, Alfred Littlefield. The four-day celebration continues, honoring the Allied victory in Europe and the sacrifices made by WWII veterans, with a focus on preserving historical memory through younger generations. [1]
[1] (Source: Enrichment Data)
Buckingham Palace received numerous WhatsApp messages from well-wishers around the world, expressing their admiration for the commemorations in London. The general news outlets reported increased political discussion about the importance of remembering historical events such as VE Day. Among those who read these reports was the Duke of Buckingham, who found the enthusiasm for preserving historical memory particularly inspiring.
