Commemorating VE Day

Commemorating VE Day

When the government moved the Bank Holiday to enable us to mark this important moment, little did we know that we would be in the position we are in right now.

On behalf of Hunstanton Town Council, Mayor Tony Bishopp said:

"VE Day celebrations will be very different this year for everyone and it is important that we all do our bit to Stay Home, Protect the NHS and Save Lives.

"However, we can all still remember the sacrifices made at home and abroad during World War II, and celebrate the arrival of peace in Europe 75 years ago.

"I would like to pay tribute to those millions at home and abroad, including many from Hunstanton and surrounding villages, who gave so much to ensure we all enjoy the freedom we share today.

"Sadly, plans Hunstanton Town Council had put in place to celebrate VE Day have been cancelled due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

"However, I hope people will take this opportunity to remember and pay tribute to the Second World War generation and mark the historical moment with activities at home and online instead as ‘to those who gave so much to secure peace and prosperity in Europe, we owe them a great deal.

"Official commemorations marking the day the Second World War ended in Europe will begin at 11am with a national moment of remembrance and a two-minute silence.

"Other plans for the day include:

  • The Prince of Wales will read an extract from King George VI’s diary from 8 May, 1945
  • Members of The Royal Family, the Prime Minister and the Culture Secretary will take part in video calls with Second World War veterans.
  • Churchill’s famous victory speech will be broadcast as part of BBC special programming
  • Second World War veterans will receive calls from NHS Volunteer Responders.
  • The Queen will send a message to the nation at 9pm. This will be followed by a national singalong of Dame Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll Meet Again’. People are encouraged to open their doors and join in with this national moment of celebration.

"Whether you are planning a stay-at-home party or simply raising a toast, do join in this special day while staying safe.

"We are looking forward to marking the 75th anniversary of VE Day on Friday, to acknowledge the sacrifices and bravery of those during the war and to celebrate the life we enjoy today because of their courage and tenacity.

"This anniversary is an opportunity to look forward as well as back, particularly given the situation in which we find ourselves today. Then, as now, it is about community spirit, which we can show through remembrance and thanksgiving and standing against hatred and prejudice and for building stronger communities. I encourage people to take time to reflect and to remember in their own way.

"I ask you all to stop and remember the people working tirelessly on the fight against coronavirus – our key workers in the NHS, as well as teachers, care staff, those delivering supplies, serving in shops, emptying waste and the like.

"They, like the war veterans, will give us our freedom once more."

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