Commemorate The 80th Anniversary of VE Day
Thursday, 8th May 2025 marks 80 years since the end of the Second World War in Europe.
Nazi Germany's surrender on 8th May 1945, marked the end of six-long years of war, putting an end to the Second World War in Europe.
Find out how you can get involved in celebrating the 80th anniversary of the VE Day and commemorating those who lost their lives during the Second World War.
Alongside going to VE Day themed events, we’ve also collated a number of first-hand stories from WW2 Veterans and memories from VE Day.
VE Day Events In 2025
Not sure how to celebrate VE Day in 2025? At Blesma, we've compiled a list of VE Day events happening across the UK, including in London.
While many of the major celebrations will take place in the capital, there will likely be events closer to home, such as beacon lightings and church services.
We’ll continue updating our list as more VE Day events are announced in the lead-up to the 80th anniversary.
VE Day Facts
To commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, we’ve compiled six key facts about VE Day.
Whether you're studying VE Day in school, looking to refresh your knowledge, or eager to uncover some lesser-known details about VE Day, this resource is here to help.
We've also included personal stories from some of our Members who survived the Second World War, including Kenneth Pickard and Roy Hayward. Sadly both Kenneth and Roy have passed, but we are determined to retell their experiences from VE Day and D-Day.
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Stories From VE Day
Some of Blesma’s Members had the unforgettable experience of witnessing VE Day firsthand, including Jean Morgan, the wife of Larry Morgan – one of the last surviving British veterans from the Second World War.
Jean’s connection to VE Day goes beyond just living through it. In a remarkable coincidence, she only recently discovered that she appears in one of the most iconic photographs taken on VE Day in Great Britain.
Find out more about Jean’s story and how she came to realise her unexpected place in one of the most famous images from VE Day.
Remembering The Sacrifices Of WW2 Veterans
During the Second World War, Larry was deployed to Burma to fight against Japanese forces. While in combat, a grenade landed between him and a fellow soldier, exploding on impact. Shrapnel from the blast became embedded in his left knee and thigh.
Larry is one of the last remaining British war veterans from the Second World War and is a Member of Blesma. Larry told us: "I still think of the lads from Burma. I’m the only one left and always remember them on VJ Day.”
Get Involved And Support War Veterans
In the lead up the 80th anniversary, on the day or even after the 80th anniversary of VE Day in 2025, there are a number of ways you can fundraise for Blesma.
We can help
We are dedicated to assisting serving and ex-Service men and women who have suffered life-changing limb loss or the use of a limb, an eye or sight. We support these men and women in their communities throughout the UK. Click the link below to find out the different kinds of support we offer.
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