Rutland Remembers: An 80th Anniversary Celebration for VE & VJ Day
This year, 2025, marks a truly momentous milestone as Rutland prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of both Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day. These pivotal events in history, celebrated separately on 8th May and 15th August, serve as profound reminders of the unparalleled courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who fought to secure global peace during the Second World War.
The end of World War II brought forth a profound sense of relief and a return to peaceful life after years of immense loss, hardship, and destruction. Rutland, a county deeply distinguished by its strong connections to the Armed Forces, offers a poignant and fitting backdrop for these reflections. With an estimated 20% of its population either serving personnel, reservists, veterans, MOD civilian workers, or family members of these groups, Rutland holds its ties to military service close to its heart. The county, renowned for its rich history and tight-knit community, is set to honour the enduring legacy of these achievements with fitting tributes. These celebrations are proudly supported by Oakham Town Council, the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, and Rutland County Council, and will take place at the conclusion of Armed Forces Week (June 22-28).
Weekend Celebrations: The Enduring Spirit of Peace and Unity
The central highlight of this significant anniversary will be a joint weekend celebration titled 'Rutland Remembers: Our 80th Anniversary Celebration for VE & VJ Day.' This special event will unfold over the weekend of 28th and 29th June, designed to unite the community, honour the Armed Forces, and celebrate the invaluable contributions of veterans.
Saturday 28th June
The festivities will commence in Oakham on Armed Forces Day with a special gathering at the Armed Forces & Veteran’s Breakfast Club, located at The Grainstore. Starting at 9:00 AM, this event warmly invites veterans and serving personnel to connect over a hearty breakfast. Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, CAMRA Rutland’s 12th Annual Beer Festival will run throughout the weekend, offering free entry to veterans and serving personnel upon presentation of their ID cards.
Sunday 29th June
Sunday promises a day of grand celebration, beginning with a dignified parade at 10:00 AM. The procession will march from Oakham Castle to All Saints Church, featuring representatives from the Armed Forces, veterans, cadets, Scouts, Guides, and participants from towns and villages across the county, symbolising unity and pride. Residents are warmly invited to line the High Street for an excellent view of this inspiring procession.
At 10:30 AM, a Church Service of Thanksgiving will take place at All Saints Church, welcoming everyone to join in heartfelt prayers of gratitude and remembrance. The festivities will then continue from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM with 'The Party in the Park' at Cutts Close, Oakham. This lively event promises an afternoon filled with live music, including captivating performances by the Army Cadet Corps of Drums and a spectacular RAF Lancaster Flypast. Families can look forward to a funfair, admire vintage military vehicles, and explore an array of food, drink, and other stalls, ensuring something for everyone.
Dr. Sarah Furness, Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, shared her sentiments on the upcoming celebrations: "The powerful joy and relief at the end of the 2nd World War in Europe, and then in Japan, was a reflection of the losses, privations, destruction, and hardship suffered during World War II. The guns were silent, and peaceful life could be resumed. Rutland will come together this weekend to celebrate the peace and unity that was so hard won. I urge everyone from across our county, civilian, veteran, and serving soldiers, to join together to enjoy this weekend, our freedoms, and our way of life. This celebration will be an appropriate way to mark our appreciation of those in our county giving active service as it marks the end of Armed Forces Week. Our freedoms were hard fought for, and our military are fundamental in maintaining them."
Honouring History and Building the Future
As Rutland gathers to reflect on the eight decades since the end of World War II, these celebrations serve as a poignant reminder of the resilience and unity that upheld the world during its darkest hours. These events are not merely about looking back but also about fostering community bonds, inspiring future generations, and ensuring that the legacy of VE and VJ Day remains a living, breathing part of Rutland’s identity.
'Rutland Remembers' stands as a testament to a county that holds history close, honours service deeply, and celebrates life. Join us in commemorating these historic moments and celebrating the enduring spirit of peace and unity.
