Keir Starmer has praised the “selfless dedication” of those who have served in the military before the anniversary of VE Day. In an open letter to mark 80 years since the end of the second world war in Europe, the prime minister said the sacrifice made by members of the armed forces was a debt that could “never fully be repaid”. He said the country would show how thankful it was during events to commemorate VE Day, which signalled the end of fighting on 8 May 1945. “It was also a victory for good against the assembled forces of hatred, tyranny and evil,” Starmer wrote. “VE Day is a chance to acknowledge, again, that our debt to those who achieved it can never fully be repaid.” A procession of 1,300 military personnel and civilians through London will take place on Monday and a flypast by the Red Arrows and Voyager transport aircraft. There will also be a two-minute silence at noon on Thursday followed by a service in Westminster Abbey attended by King Charles. Street parties will be held in towns and cities across the UK as part of the special events – including community tea parties, 1940s dress-up events, and gatherings onboard second world war warships. In addition, a display of almost 30,000 ceramic poppies will go on show at the Tower of London. Starmer said his thoughts would turn both to those who served in the second world war and those who carried “the torch of their legacy” today. “Alongside our history and our values, service is the other great force that binds a nation together,” he said. “So this week, I want you to know: the whole nation is inspired by the selfless dedication of your example.”
Author: Rowena Mason Whitehall editor