As the world marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day on May 8, 2025, we reflect on the enduring significance of Allied unity, military preparedness, and the preservation of history. On May 8, 1945, the Allied forces achieved a monumental victory with the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany, bringing an end to World War II in Europe. This triumph was the result of unwavering collaboration among nations, strategic military planning, and the resilience of countless individuals.
The success of the Allies underscores the importance of strong leadership and preparedness. It serves as a reminder that unity and strategic foresight are crucial in overcoming formidable challenges.
VE Day was not just the end of a war – it was a declaration of what free nations could achieve when united by a common cause. The Allies were an unprecedented coalition of countries, ideologies, and people of all walks of life who stood shoulder to shoulder to defeat tyranny. Their unity, despite differences, demonstrated that freedom and justice are worth defending together.
That lesson remains vital today. In an increasingly complex global landscape, where authoritarian regimes challenge the rules-based international order, the need for strong, collaborative alliances—like NATO and other strategic partnerships—has never been greater. These alliances not only deter aggression but also promote global stability and uphold democratic principles.
One of the critical lessons of World War II was the cost of complacency. The early stages of the war revealed how a lack of preparedness left many nations vulnerable to aggression. It was only through extraordinary effort—ramping up industrial production, training soldiers, and developing technology—that the Allies were able to match and eventually overcome the Axis powers.
Today, being militarily prepared is not about seeking conflict but about ensuring peace through strength. A credible and capable military is essential to deterring threats, protecting national interests, and supporting our country and allies in times of crisis. Investment in defense, modernization, and joint training exercises are key and critical components to maintaining this readiness.
World War II was a stark reminder that democracy is neither inevitable nor invincible. It must be protected—vigilantly and continuously. The threats we face today both domestically and internationally may not always wear uniforms or fly flags. Cyber warfare, disinformation campaigns, and economic coercion all seek to erode democratic institutions from within.
Having a strong military, standing with allies, sharing intelligence, coordinating responses to global crises, and promoting the rule of law are modern extensions of the spirit of VE Day. These efforts ensure that the ideals of liberty are not only preserved but passed on, undiminished, to future generations.
As we reflect on 80 years since VE Day, we are reminded that peace is not passive, it is something we must actively sustain. Democracy is not guaranteed; it is something we must choose, protect, and defend. And freedom is not free, it is preserved through the vigilance, cooperation, and preparedness of those who believe in its worth.
In honoring the past, let us recommit these values today. Let the memory of VE Day inspire us not only to remember, but to act – to forge strong partnerships, to remain militarily prepared, and to stand firm against tyranny wherever it arises.
Written by Lt. General Leon Scott Rice (Ret.)
Former Director of the Air National Guard
and American Heritage Museum Board Member
