Victory in Europe 78 Years Later
Stars and Stripes VE-Day newspaper and corresponding photograph. From the WWII Veterans History Project collection.
78 years ago today, on May 8, 1945, the Allies accepted Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender, marking the end of World War II in Europe. It was a day of triumph and jubilation, as millions of people across the world celebrated the return of peace to the European continent after nearly six years of destructive war.
On this historic day of remembrance, we are given the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices that were made both at home and abroad during WWII. It is also a time to celebrate the anniversary of victory in Europe, just as the men and women of the greatest generation did 78 years ago.
Silk flag depicting four of the Allied victors – China, United Kingdom, United States, and USSR. From the WWII Veterans History Project collection.
Newspapers announcing victory over Nazi Germany. From left to right: 76th Infantry Division, Stars and Stripes (Europe), 45th Infantry Division. From the WWII Veterans History Project collection.