LegionLive

I have some exciting news - Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall are to help celebrate the 65th  anniversary of VE Day by leading a national service of commemoration.

Taking place on 8th May at the Cenotaph, London, the event marks the official end of hostilities in Europe for the Second World War following the unconditional surrender of German Forces. As you can imagine, VE Day became a day for celebration and jubilation, but it was also a poignant reminder of those who never returned from duty.

The service is to celebrate the achievements of the UK, the Commonwealth and the allies in their victory against fascism, and will also honour the 580,406 UK and Commonwealth Forces and 67,073 UK civilians who lost their lives during the six years of conflict. Also in attendance at the service will be current personnel from the three Armed Forces, and members of the public coming together to pay tribute. The Prince will later meet with VE Day veterans at a Royal British Legion-organised event in Horse Guards Parade.

An understandably thrilled Lt Gen Sir John Kiszely, who is the Legion’s National President, said: “We are extremely grateful that The Prince of Wales was able to join us in Normandy last year for the 65th anniversary of the D-Day landings. It is entirely appropriate that His Royal Highness returns again this year to meet with some of those veterans who made victory in Europe possible.