How the VE75 Anniversary is causing me Frustration

The sun is shining, kettle on for a coffee, dead mouse on the kitchen floor (thanks cat!). Yes, another Saturday in lockdown. Washing done, weekly meals scheduled, social media posts proof read. But wait, what is this? Yet another shared post for a lock down street party this forthcoming friday to commemorate the end of the Second World War! Nooooooo...

 So the last few days have seen an increase in educational packs, supporting materials, invitations for VE day. Online workshops to make your own bunting (the Museum has also done this), recipes for traditional party food, advice on what to play at your 1940s themed event, and ideas for suggested outfits. VE day was always going to be commemorated and locally, plans were afoot to host activities in the City centre with the Museum providing satellite activity on Friday and Saturday. Obviously, nationwide and local events were cancelled and everywhere went exceedingly quiet as people reconfigured plans and ideas whilst we continued in lockdown.

 Then in dribs and drabs, agencies and organisations started to circulate on-line material to promote the day. A distraction from the stay at home life we are all currently experiencing. Infact, information actively promoted how you could plan your own street party from the comfort of your own garden/house, adapting plans to suit this restrictive lifestyle. Great, no problem. Celebration whilst people are finding life hard. Infact, what a comparison to WW2 (and this has not been lost to many a commentator) but excuse me, there just seems to be one minor issue that is getting lost amongst all this red, white and blue excitement. The 'VE' prefix to the actual day.

 I am not adverse to a little celebration myself but 'VE' seems to have become associated with the end of the Second World War. Not once, but several times I have seen this on community posters. By all means sing along with Vera Lynn, listen to the Queen's wise words, celebrate with a glass of Pimms but understand what it is that we are actually commemorating here. In May 1945, the Germans surrendered unconditionally and war in Europe ceased. The clue is in the letters here - VE, Victory in Europe. 

 Thousands of miles away, the Allies were still fighting the Japanese and continued to do so until 15th August, the end of the war. Known as VJ day, many families of those who fought in the Far East become quite agrieved by this focus on VE and the supposed end of the war. Understandably. This was a world war that had a reach far beyond Europe. Many of those in places such as Burma were living and fighting in the jungle and even though they might have been aware of what was happening in Europe, they still continued to do so. Next friday is a bank holiday and there is a nationwide schedule of events and activities, but I hope as you will all join me in celebrating VE day, you will also remember those that were still fighting out in Asia. Because this is an opportunity; an opportunity for all of us to widen awareness, correct this historical error and ensure that the Forgotten Army are not forgotten.

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