On 8 May 1945, after almost 6 years of conflict that caused immense loss of life and widespread devastation, the war in Europe was finally over.
The signing of an unconditional surrender by the German High Command took place on 7 May 1945, with the surrender taking effect from midnight on 8 to 9 May 1945.
Victory in Europe (VE) Day was declared on 8 May 1945. It brought an end to the war against Germany and its European allies.
Australians serving overseas celebrated the victory, as did their loved ones back home. Although celebrations were dampened by the knowledge that the war in the Pacific was still to be won.
On 9 May, the editorial writer of The Canberra Times wrote that the floodlights over the Australian War Memorial stood ‘in bright relief against the darkness which is now passing from Europe, and soon from the entire world’.
The war in the Pacific continued until the Japanese surrendered on 15 August 1945.
Today, we remember the service and sacrifice of all those who fought and died in the Second World War.
DVA’s online Wall of Remembrance is a unique way you can take part in remembrance. The ‘Wall’ is a living, evolving, community-led tribute for all Australians to share a reflection or memory of a loved one connected to the Australian Defence Force.
Lest we forget.
