Submitted by Bob Chada, American Legion Historian
It was a Wednesday and started like any other Wednesday. People going to work, others going to school, and still others out shopping, and children out playing. But it all changed and ended with the country in complete celebration. What changed? Word was received that Germany surrendered unconditionally. The war was over in Europe. Thus was born the term “VE” day in America. This May 8 represents the 80 anniversity of “VE” day.
America entered the war in Europe on December 8 1941 when President Roosevelt declared war against Germany at the same time he declared war against Japan following the attack at Pearl Harbor Hawaii.
Initial deployment of troops to Europe did not start until January of 1942 and by the end of the war, 61 Divisions and 1.9 million Americans were still serving in Europe from all branches of services.
The end of the war allowed those men and women to be just as happy.