Victory in Europe Day

Victory in Europe Day

Reported By PFC Z.Williamson May 8, 2023

On May 8 1945 - known as Victory in Europe Day or V-E Day - celebrations appeared around the world to mark the end of World War II in Europe after the formal acceptance by the Allies including the United States of America) of World War II of Germany´s unconditional surrender of its armed forces.

The conflict began in 1939 when Germany and the Soviet Union invaded Poland. After almost five years everything changed when U.S. and Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy on 6th June 1944. The invasion signaled the beginning of the end for Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany. In less than a year, Germany would surrender and Hitler would be dead.

Millions of people rejoiced at the news that Germany had surrendered, relieved that the intense strain of the war was finally over. In towns and cities across the world, people marked the victory with street parties, dancing and singing.

Although fighting ended in Europe, it continued in the Pacific, where U.S. and Allied forces fought the Japanese in Okinawa, the Philippines and other places till August 1945

Today, memorials around the world mark the events of V-E Day and World War II and honor those who served and paid the ultimate sacrifice, including the National World War II Memorial in Washington.