Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day)
The war had dragged on for six long years. Many had died, and many missed those who were gone. Finally, the end was in sight. On May 8th, 1945, Germany surrendered, marking the end of the war. The actual formal surrender took place on May 9th, 1945 by the President of Germany, Karl Dönitz. Adolf Hitler had committed suicide with his wife on the 30th of April after the Battle of Berlin.
Everyone celebrated. People poured into the streets, shouting joyous cries of victory. In the United Kingdom, the streets were blocked all the way from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace. The current king and queen of the time, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, walked out onto the balcony and waved to the crowds, beaming smiles on their faces. Even Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret wandered among the crowds anonymously. In the United States of America, people were still mourning the death of Franklin D Roosevelt, who passed away less then a month before that day, on April 12th. The flags at the governmental buildings remained at half staff for him. President Truman dedicated the victory to Roosevelt. It was also President Truman’s birthday. In the Soviet Union, they celebrated on May 9th due to the time difference.
Everyone celebrated. People poured into the streets, shouting joyous cries of victory. In the United Kingdom, the streets were blocked all the way from Trafalgar Square to Buckingham Palace. The current king and queen of the time, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, walked out onto the balcony and waved to the crowds, beaming smiles on their faces. Even Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret wandered among the crowds anonymously. In the United States of America, people were still mourning the death of Franklin D Roosevelt, who passed away less then a month before that day, on April 12th. The flags at the governmental buildings remained at half staff for him. President Truman dedicated the victory to Roosevelt. It was also President Truman’s birthday. In the Soviet Union, they celebrated on May 9th due to the time difference.