As Military Appreciation Month, May is host to several military holidays and observances in the United States and overseas. Just as BVA’s founding goes back 80 years to reflect the end of World War II, the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, or V-E Day, should also be recognized for doing the same. Others include Military Spouses Appreciation Day, Children of Fallen Patriots Day, Armed Forces Day, and Memorial Day. BVA Happenings will recognize each of these throughout the month.

First up is the 80th anniversary of V-E Day next Thursday, May 8. The day marks the German surrender and the end of six years of conflict and devastation in Europe. Although the United States and Japan remained at war until August, V-E Day in Europe 80 years ago saw millions throughout the world celebrating in street parties, dancing and singing in relief that, finally, the intense strain of total war was apparently ending.

V-E Day 80 in the United Kingdom, the name of the four-day (May 5-8, 2025) 80th anniversary celebrations there, will be commemorated with events across the British Isles, including a military procession and fly-past in London, a service at Westminster Abbey, a two-minute national silence at noon on Thursday, and a concert at Horse Guards Parade (the official entrance to St. James and Buckingham Palace). Local communities and schools will also host events and activities throughout next week.