LONDON (AP) — A 100-year-old Royal Air Force veteran, Alan Kennett, was honored during the observance of the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (V-E) Day on May 5, 2025, as Britain paused to reflect on the sacrifices made during World War II. The day was marked by a significant procession that featured 1,300 members of the British armed forces, alongside troops from Ukraine and NATO allies. The event commenced after Kennett accepted the salute from Garrison Sgt. Major Andrew Stokes, with an audience that included King Charles III.
During the ceremony, Stokes expressed gratitude towards Kennett and his generation, stating, “Thank you and your generation for securing our freedom 80 years ago.” Kennett, who had landed in Normandy on D-Day, wore a navy blue blazer adorned with his military medals, visibly representing the contributions of those who fought in the war.
This year’s V-E Day events held heightened importance, as they potentially marked the final major observance that could include a significant number of World War II veterans, given their advanced ages. Michael Burn, a 67-year-old attendee, noted the rarity of such commemorative gatherings, stating, “This is the last time we will celebrate the day on this sort of scale.”
The ceremonies began early, as Britain initiated V-E Day celebrations three days ahead of the public holiday, with Big Ben tolling at noon. Actor Timothy Spall recited the famous victory speech delivered by wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill to a jubilant crowd in central London on May 8, 1945. Following this, the parade proceeded from the Houses of Parliament, passing through Trafalgar Square and culminating at Buckingham Palace. The participation of a small Ukrainian contingent garnered a loud applause, illustrating solidarity and support amid ongoing conflicts.
The event concluded with a spectacular flyover by British military aircraft, including the historic Lancaster bomber and the RAF's Red Arrows aerobatic team. Princess of Wales was spotted engaging warmly with veteran Bernard Morgan, who is 101 and was a code breaker during the war, further bridging the gap between generations. She introduced Morgan to her children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, who sat in the front row.
This generational contrast emphasized the diminishing number of World War II veterans, many of whom are now over 100 years old. There are growing sentiments among the veterans to share their stories and commemorate their fallen comrades as they recognize the lowering ranks of their peers. Kennett reflected on the memories of those who did not return from the war, stating, “I just remember those that didn’t come back... There’s a lot that didn’t, believe me. Luck of the draw. It shouldn’t be forgotten.”
The day not only celebrated victory but also served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and bravery of those who fought for freedom, reinforcing the lasting importance of remembering history. As the V-E Day 80th anniversary parade unfolded, the presence of the current royal family alongside veterans served to connect the past with present endeavors, ensuring that the legacy of World War II remains etched in collective memory.
