London marks 80 years since VE Day
Thousands of people gathered in central London to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, commemorating the end of World War II in Europe. The day's events featured a grand military procession and a flypast by historic aircraft, honoring the sacrifices of the wartime generation.
The celebrations commence with actor Timothy Spall reading Winston Churchill's historic 1945 victory speech. The military procession that followed featured 1,300 personnel from the UK Armed Forces, NATO allies, and Ukrainian troops, symbolizing international solidarity. The route passed iconic landmarks, including the Cenotaph, and concluded at Buckingham Palace.
The Royal Family, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and their children, appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony to witness the flypast. The aerial display featured a WWII-era Lancaster bomber and concluded with the Red Arrows, Britain's renowned aerobatic team.
A poignant moment occurred when WWII veteran Alan Kennett, a D-Day participant, accepted a salute from Garrison Sergeant Major Andrew Stokes, highlighting the nation's gratitude to its veterans.
Beyond the capital, communities across the UK hosted street parties, concerts, and themed events to mark the occasion. In London, a display of 30,000 ceramic poppies at the Tower of London paid tribute to those who served.
The commemorations will continue throughout the week, culminating in a Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey on May 8. These events not only honored the past but also emphasized the enduring values of unity and resilience, ensuring that the legacy of the wartime generation continues to inspire future generations.
