The Guns Are Silent in Europe This Day

[Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP)]

I just wanted to remind everyone that on this day in Europe, 63 years ago, the guns went silent and the lights went on once more, after six long and brutal years. The following is the letter of the day in the Toronto Sun today; this veteran speaks well.

V.E. Day (Victory in Europe)

Sixty three years ago the clouds of war parted as Germany's armed forces surrendered on May 8, 1945 and World War II in Europe was over. The people of Europe wept as they left their shelters and realized that they would once more be free.

The soldiers sat in wonderment and thanked their god that they had survived this most deadly and destructive moment in world history.
The civilian population around the world wildly celebrated this moment as the lights went on again.

The magnificent display of bravery, courage and dedication by the young men and women of our allied forces in their determination to rid the world of this evil force forever simply boggles the mind.

This moment in history is an integral part of our Canadian legacy, pride and history by those that went before us and must be remembered forever.
It is hoped that our younger generation will take up the torch with honest dedication and courage as it is passed to them from our failing hands.

And so I take this moment to speak for all Canadians and a grateful nation and say with the deepest sincerity, "thank you," and remember with the dignity deserved in keeping with the services rendered in the defence of our freedoms.

From a grateful nation we say,

"Well done boys and girls. Stand down all you veterans, you finished the job with honour."

Lest we forget.

Ross Rennie
Trooper GGHG 3rd Armored Recce. Regiment, 44/45
Scarborough