VE Day marks the end of World War 2 in Europe on May 8th 1945, essentially marking the Allied victory against Nazi Germany. This was so significant as, on this day, 6 years of war finally came to an end following the surrender of Nazi Germany. A brutal war that sent countries all around the world into intense rationing of food and clothing while having to endure mass bomb attacks all came to an end, sending a chain reaction of celebrations with the first announcement of the surrender. Surprisingly, this surrender of Germany had been anticipated, leaving people in Britain on standby, eager to celebrate the end of the war. The official broadcast happened on the 7th of May late in the evening, also informing everyone that the official day of celebration would go on to be the 8th of May.

It is understandable that many people chose to start their celebration immediately with flags already lining the streets all across Britain with bonfires lighting the sky on the eve of VE Day, bringing joy to all those who were forced to suffer. There was not a person not celebrating on VE day, from the smallest of people all the way to the Royal Family, who made several appearances on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. The King and Queen made eight appearances as well as Princess Elizabeth and her sister Margaret leaving the palace to go join the party. 

All celebrations continued way into the night of VE day with massive crowds dancing and singing throughout the streets. It was estimated about 50,000 people were crowded into Piccadilly Circus by midnight. It was a celebration to remember, bringing together people who had never even met and to this day is still celebrated.

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day this year, there will be a four-day-long celebration, involving busy street parties, a balcony appearance from Buckingham Palace, and, most notably, the Red Arrows, where the Royal Air Force's aerobatic display team perform a renowned flypast and other displays to honour the fallen soldiers, those who fought, and those who played any role in the war. This instantly recognisable cross is used in numerous major national events/ celebrations, such as royal celebrations, remembrance events, and historical anniversaries, making it undeniably suitable for its duty for VE day. These performances strive to attract the younger generations, to educate and involve them in their countries' history. The Red Cross performance is a brilliant representation of the RAF and British military excellence, and as the day approaches, hopefully, millions of us will gather together, and remember the sacrifices made, lives lost, and the legacy of courage and unity that brought peace to Europe, and for it to never be forgotten.

Isabella Mribiha Ely, Year 9

Special thanks to Joeshlynn Sherchan