The Royal British Legion has urged Second World War veterans to register for commemorations marking the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day this year. Victory in Europe (VE) Day happened on May 8 1945, while Victory over Japan (VJ) Day took place on August 15 1945, effectively ending the war.
Major events to commemorate the anniversaries will be centred on the combined efforts of the Allied Forces, from Britain, the Commonwealth and beyond, the Royal British Legion says. The charity is calling for those who served in the Second World War, or their family or carers on their behalf, to register on its website to join national and local community events.
Retired Rear Admiral John Roberts, 100, a D-Day veteran from Kent, said: “2025 is an important year for my generation, with anniversaries for both VE and VJ Day. “It is always an honour being part of a Royal British Legion event, joining with comrades to remember and pay tribute to those we lost.
“I want to encourage all those who served their country in the Second World War to register on the RBL’s website, to make sure they are involved.”. Last year marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day, with members of the royal family joining politicians and the public at events in Normandy, at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, and around the country.
These included 21 veterans and their families returning to Normandy in June to commemorate the beach landings, and 26 veterans attending the service at the Arboretum. The Royal British Legion is hoping that the nation will come together again for VE Day and VJ Day commemorations in 2025, to pay tribute to those who served in the conflict.
