Royal British Legion Calls WWII Veterans to Join 80th VE and VJ Day Celebrations in 2025

January 3, 2025
Royal British Legion Calls WWII Veterans to Join 80th VE and VJ Day Celebrations in 2025
  • Registered veterans will receive information about the commemorative plans and invitations to local and national events.

  • With an estimated 70,000 WWII veterans still alive in the UK, the campaign aims to unite the nation in honoring their sacrifices.

  • Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has stated that 2025 will be a year to celebrate Britain's history and honor the sacrifices made by ordinary people during the war.

  • These commemorations will pay tribute to the Greatest Generation, who played a crucial role in defeating fascism and securing peace.

  • The Royal British Legion is urging World War II veterans to register for memorial events commemorating the 80th anniversary of VE Day on May 8, 2025, and VJ Day on August 15, 2025.

  • The Royal British Legion emphasizes the importance of recognizing the contributions of these veterans to the country.

  • Philippa Rawlinson, Director of Remembrance at the Royal British Legion, highlighted that these anniversaries may be the last chance to pay tribute to WWII veterans and share their stories.

  • Veterans like 101-year-old Jack Mortimer and 100-year-old John Roberts express their desire to participate in the upcoming celebrations despite their advanced age.

  • A recent poll revealed that 73% of the public supports the idea of an extra bank holiday to commemorate these anniversaries, although Downing Street has stated there are no plans for one yet.

  • The VE Day 80 commemoration will mirror the celebratory street parties of 1945, while the VJ Day 80 will mark the end of six years of conflict.

  • The Royal British Legion is seeking not only male veterans but also women and individuals in lesser-known roles, such as switchboard operators.

  • Registration is open to surviving veterans, munitions workers, reservists, and members of the Special Operations Executive.

Summary based on 5 sources


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