What Happened on VE Day? A Timeline of May 8, 1945

On May 8, 1945, the world witnessed the end of a devastating chapter in history as Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender marked the conclusion of World War II in Europe. Known as Victory in Europe Day, or VE Day, this date is etched in memory for the relief and jubilation it brought to millions. From the early morning hours to late-night celebrations, the day unfolded with significant events that signaled the dawn of peace after years of conflict.

The formal act of military surrender was signed on May 7, 1945, at 02:41 Central European Time in Reims, France, by General Alfred Jodl on behalf of the German High Command. However, to satisfy the Soviet Union's demand for a second, more formal ceremony, another signing occurred on May 8 in Berlin. Field Marshal Wilhelm Keitel signed the definitive German Instrument of Surrender at 22:43 local time, in the presence of Soviet Marshal Georgy Zhukov and representatives of the Western Allies. This act stipulated that all German forces cease operations at 23:01 Central European Time on May 8, 1945. 

In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed the nation at 15:00 BST, announcing the end of the war in Europe and declaring May 8 as VE Day. He acknowledged the immense sacrifices made and emphasized that the war against Japan was still ongoing. King George VI followed with a radio broadcast at 21:00, expressing gratitude to the armed forces and the British people. Both May 8 and 9 were declared public holidays in the UK to allow citizens to celebrate the victory.

As news of the surrender spread, spontaneous celebrations erupted across Europe and North America. In London, over a million people gathered in the streets, particularly in Trafalgar Square and along The Mall leading to Buckingham Palace. King George VI, Queen Elizabeth, and their daughters, Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret, appeared on the palace balcony alongside Churchill, waving to the ecstatic crowds. The princesses later mingled anonymously with the public, experiencing the celebrations firsthand. 

Similar scenes unfolded in cities like Paris, Brussels, and New York, where people took to the streets, singing, dancing, and embracing strangers in shared relief and joy. Church bells rang, flags were hoisted, and impromptu parades formed as communities marked the end of years of hardship and loss. 

While the atmosphere was predominantly celebratory, leaders urged reflection and remembrance. Churchill, in his speech, reminded the public that the war in the Pacific continued, and efforts must persist until total victory was achieved. In the United States, President Harry S. Truman dedicated the victory to the memory of his predecessor, Franklin D. Roosevelt, who had died less than a month earlier. Truman's birthday coincided with VE Day, but he emphasized the ongoing struggle against Japan. 

As night fell, the world had changed irrevocably. The cessation of hostilities in Europe marked not just a military victory but the beginning of a complex post-war era. Nations faced the challenges of rebuilding, addressing the horrors uncovered in liberated territories, and navigating new geopolitical dynamics. For many, VE Day was a moment of profound relief, tempered by the knowledge of the work that lay ahead to secure lasting peace.