Greenwich’s strong ties to armed forces set to make VE Day especially poignant
Greenwich is preparing to party – and partake in solemn reflection – as the nation celebrates the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe in May.
Victory in Europe (VE) Day commemorates the end of World War II in Europe on May 8, 1945, and celebrations will take place across the country.
Councillor Sandra Bauer, cabinet member for equality, culture and communities, said: “The Royal Borough of Greenwich is proud to be home to the second largest armed forces community in London, and as proud signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant, we’re committed to supporting them.
“VE Day is an opportunity to pay tribute to those who fought for our freedom in World War II, and to an entire generation whose resilience and courage mean that 80 years on, we have a welcoming, inclusive and safe place to call home.
It’s also a chance to honour those who have served in the armed forces since, and to recognise our borough’s rich military history.
“We’ll be proudly raising the VE Day 80 flag above Woolwich Town Hall on Thursday, May 8, and I look forward to seeing residents across the borough celebrating this historic moment together.”
Events will take place across Royal Greenwich, including memorial services lead by local branches of the Royal British Legion and a VE Day commemoration event at Severndroog castle on Sunday, May 4, from 10am to 3pm.
The Mayor of Royal Greenwich will raise the VE Day 80 flag above Woolwich Town Hall at 10.30am on May 8. National celebrations will also take place in central London, with a parade, flypast and concert.
Residents can keep an eye on our online events calendar for any events happening near them.
The council are also waiving the fees for street parties held on Monday, May 5 – a bank holiday – so it will be free to close your road to celebrate. Applications to hold a street party need to be submitted to the council by 12 noon tomorrow.
Apply to host a street party at royalgreenwich.gov.uk/street-
The council reaffirmed its commitment to the nationally recognised Armed Forces Covenant on Armistice Day back in 2022.
The covenant is a promise by the nation ensuring that those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly.
It is a voluntary statement of mutual support between civilians and its local armed forces. The promise includes the moral obligation by the government at a local level.
Pictured top: VE Day street party Brookdene Road, 1945 (Picture: Ronald H. French)
