Inverness service of remembrance to mark 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day
A service of remembrance will be among the events taking place in Inverness to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day.
The commemoration will take place at the city’s war memorial in Cavell Gardens on May 8 at 11am.
It is being organised by the Inverness branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland (RBLS) and will include the laying of wreaths.
Inverness Cathedral is also hosting a service of thanksgiving at 7.30pm on May 8.
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As World War II drew to a close, VE Day in 1945 was declared a public holiday in the UK following the German forces’ unconditional surrender on May 7 in the wake of the suicide of Nazi leader Adolf Hitler
A newsflash was broadcast to the public announcing the end of the war in Europe, prompting celebrations throughout the Allied world.
Streets were filled with singing and dancing, parties and parades and special thanksgiving services were held - although the celebrations were tinged with poignancy at the memory of those who had died, or were still missing, and concern for those still fighting as war continued to rage in east Asia and the Pacific until August.
Bart Lucas, chairman of the Inverness RBLS branch, said it was still important to remember the events of 80 years ago and to pay tribute to those who for fought for freedom.
“It is an important reminder that we have enjoyed peace in our country for 80 years,” he said.
“But with ongoing conflicts in places such as Ukraine and Gaza, it is also a reminder of how fragile peace is.”
He said that anyone who served in World War II would be at least 98 years old and their numbers were dwindling.
“This anniversary will be last major one they will see,” he said.
The branch is hold a VE party at the British Legion Club in King Street on May 10 between 2pm and 4pm.
It will include food and drink plus music by accordionist Ronnie Shaw.
It is also hoped to screen some of the events marking the anniversary in other parts of the UK.
Inverness Provost Glynis Campbell will mark the VE Day anniversary in France, recalling the sacrifice of the 51st Highland Division in the defence and subsequent Liberation of St Valery En Caux in Normandy.
She has accepted an invitation from the town’s mayor to attend the commemorative events on May 8.
