VE Day 80th Anniversary: Honouring the Brave Men, Women, and Animals of World War Two

This week, we mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day — Victory in Europe Day — a landmark moment that signalled the end of World War Two in Europe. As the nation joins together in VE Day celebrations, it's a fitting time to pause, reflect, and pay tribute to the bravery, resilience, and sacrifice shown by so many during one of the darkest chapters in our history.

On 8th May 1945, people across Britain and Europe flooded the streets in joyful relief, celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany after six years of relentless war. But behind those celebrations lay stories of great personal loss, endurance, and courage — stories that deserve to be remembered, especially as we mark this significant VE Day 80th anniversary.

As a lover of history, I feel a strong pull to honour both the good and the bad in our past. Remembering the sacrifices made by the brave men and women of World War Two is not only a duty but a privilege. It's through their courage that we enjoy the freedoms and peace that many of us take for granted today.

During my own journey as a writer, particularly while researching my debut novel, The Vintage Coat, and especially it's follow up Charlie, I found myself drawn deeper into the world of 1940s Britain. What started as an attempt to explore the character of Charlie — a fictional soldier whose war diaries form the heart of my story — became a personal voyage of discovery.

I based much of Charlie’s fictional experiences on real events: from the tense days following Britain’s declaration of war, to the fierce air battles during the Battle of Britain, the terror and resilience shown during the Blitz, and the miraculous rescue at Dunkirk. Through this research, I unearthed details and stories I hadn’t fully appreciated before — accounts of ordinary people doing extraordinary things in the face of adversity.

We often hear phrases like "the war spirit" or "people pulled together" in times of hardship, but it’s difficult for most of us today to truly grasp the scale of those sacrifices. Rationing, blackouts, bombings, separation from loved ones — these were daily realities for those who lived through World War Two. It is precisely because of their endurance and bravery that we are spared from such fears today.

The Forgotten Heroes: Animals in World War Two

As we honour the men and women who served, it is also vital to shine a light on the often-forgotten heroes of the war: the animals who played unsung yet crucial roles. Over 16 million animals served during World War Two, and their bravery and sacrifice are every bit as remarkable.

Pigeons carried critical messages across enemy lines when radios and telegraph lines were cut or too dangerous to use. One such pigeon, Cher Ami, saved nearly 200 soldiers by delivering a vital message despite being shot and badly injured. These feathered messengers were often the difference between life and death.

Dogs were another vital part of the war effort. From detecting mines to locating wounded soldiers in the rubble of bombed cities, their intelligence and loyalty saved countless lives. Dogs like Rip, a stray who became a search-and-rescue hero during the Blitz, are shining examples of their invaluable role.

Horses and mules transported ammunition, food, and medical supplies through terrain where vehicles could not pass, especially in remote battlefields across Europe, North Africa, and Asia. Their strength and endurance were instrumental, often under harrowing conditions.

Elephants were used in Burma and India to help build bridges and clear paths through dense jungle, proving that no task was too great for these mighty animals.

Even smaller creatures had their part to play. Soldiers used glow worms to illuminate maps without giving away their position to the enemy.

Recognising this service, the Dickin Medal — known as the animals' Victoria Cross — was established in 1943 to honour the gallantry of animals in war. To date, dozens of pigeons, dogs, horses, and even a cat named Simon, who served aboard HMS Amethyst, have been decorated for their bravery.

Their contribution is a powerful reminder that war touches every life, human and animal alike. As we reflect on the 80th anniversary of VE Day, let’s ensure these animals are not forgotten in our commemorations.

As the UK and the world gather to commemorate VE Day 80 years on, let’s take a moment to honour every individual and animal whose life was forever changed by World War Two. Whether through street parties, remembrance services, or quiet reflection, let’s ensure that the legacy of their sacrifice is never forgotten.

For me personally, writing about this era — even through the lens of fiction — has deepened my respect for that generation. While Charlie, the character in The Vintage Coat, is fictional, his struggles and triumphs are rooted in the real-life courage shown by millions.

So as we raise our flags and remember VE Day, let’s celebrate not just the end of war in Europe, but the enduring spirit of resilience, unity, and bravery — shown by men, women, and animals alike — that continues to inspire us 80 years later.