(adapted from a communication circulated by Edinburgh Council on behalf of the ‘Pageantmaster VE Day 75′. This is provided for information only. To the best of LCCC’s webmaster’s knowledge, LCCC does not have a position on these anniversary events or the original event.)

See also longer letter. (Click to see the original PDF.)

One year from today, we will be celebrating the 75th anniversary of VE Day (8th May 2020), marking 75 years since the end of WW2, so have great pleasure in outlining plans for VE Day 75, being organised to celebrate and commemorate this important anniversary next year.

The 8th May 1945 was the day peace emerged after nearly six years of war, so the 75th anniversary on 8th May 2020 represents an important milestone in our history.  I am sure you will agree that we cannot let this day pass without reflecting on the enormous sacrifice, courage and determination of people from all walks of life who saw us through this dark period. Our celebration, VE Day 75, will cover the weekend of 8th – 10th May 2020, and will be an international celebration of peace – a time to remember, reflect and pay tribute to the millions who played such a vital part in achieving it.

This includes the Armed Forces personnel from many countries who gave their lives, and those who returned home injured in body and mind; the hard-working women and men who kept the factories, mines, shipyards and farms operating throughout the years of turmoil; the ARP wardens, police officers, doctors, nurses, firemen, local defence volunteers and many others who put their lives on hold to safeguard the home front.

The official, exclusive charity for VE Day 75 is SSAFA, the Armed Forces Charity, which also supports the Merchant Navy.

The planned activities over the weekend are as follows:

• The Playing of Battle’s O’er & VE 75 Years
• The Nation’s Toast to the Heroes of WW2
• The Cry for Peace, around the World
• Churches & cathedrals Ringing out for Peace
• Street parties and parties in pubs, clubs, Hotels, on town and village greens and in halls etc
• Services of commemoration and celebration in churches, including the reading of the Tribute to the Millions and the playing of the Last Post

Registration for all participants will be solely through www.veday75.org as soon as possible over the next few months, or by no later than 1st MAY 2020. As well as adding your details you will also be able to download important documents, including a commemorative certificate, and view messages of support from individuals and organisations.