My own parents did not witness this special day for they were both still serving with the Royal Air Force in India and "V.J." Day - Victory over Japan did not happen until August 15th, 1945. Even so, they heard about V.E. Day and knew that it marked the beginning of the end of World War II.
I know they cannot hear me but I want to send out a personal message to all the young Britons who sacrificed their lives for the future of our country. We lost 383,700 military personnel - my Uncle Jack included - and a further 67,100 citizens lost their lives in Nazi bombing raids.
To those who died, I say thank you and thank you again. That is my simple and heartfelt message. I for one will never forget. They were the best of us and we owe it to them to continue striving for peace as the decades flick by.
Well said!
ReplyDeleteHave I mentioned that my grandfather was stationed in England for a while in WWII? Norfolk, I think. Anyway, it makes me sad to think he fought in that war and some of his descendents (not me!) voted for the Felon and his Nazi sympathizing cronies. He would be so ashamed.
ReplyDeleteAll those who sacrificed their lives all those years ago and here goes America following that same vile path.
ReplyDeleteWill we ever learn?
Thank you and thank you and thank you from me also.
ReplyDeleteHear, hear.
ReplyDeleteDid you see the 107 year old RAF pilot, Flight Lieutenant Harry Richardson, sitting with the King at last night's VE concert? Such admiration for those brave men and women.
ReplyDeletenot to detract from the sentiment or the occasion.... but i was a bit surprised how heavy the 80th celebrations are.... i don't remember the 70th or the 75th being so exuberant...... maybe it just passed me by .....
ReplyDeleteThe 75th Anniversary of V E day was during lockdown so people were not mixing.At my sheltered housing complex we had a very informal party in the communal garden all sitting 2 metres apart and being ultra cautious.
DeleteThe 80th Anniversary events have added an unexpected depth to our visit. About 20 years ago I visited Normandy for the first time. I felt the weight of the loss that took place there, and spending time in the villages, understood why it was done.
ReplyDeleteGreat post. It's a shame it wasn't the war to end all wars. The world leaders still plan new wars. War Pigs by Black Sabbath comes to mind.
ReplyDeleteI wish humans had never invented war and that none of these tributes would ever be necessary. And that is some wishful thinking.
ReplyDeleteMy thanks too go out to all those who have given their lives in the fight for our freedom. Sadly, no matter how hard we try to keep them down, despots and dictators still fight their way to the top and proceed to wreak havoc. We haven't learned.
ReplyDeleteWell said.
ReplyDeleteWell worth remembering and celebrating!
ReplyDelete