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Today (8 April 2025) is the 80th anniversary of VE Day – or ‘Victory in Europe Day’ which marks the day towards the end of World War Two (WW2) when fighting against Nazi Germany in Europe came to an end, following Germany’s surrender the day before.
Staff from across Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) have been in attendance, or will be attending, commemorative events planned across Bath and North East Somerset, Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. Several of our officers have also been part of the military processions in London.
If operationally possible, colleagues will also be marking the occasion by observing a two-minute silence at midday today to come together in collective reflection.
We will also be celebrating VE Day with a fitness challenge. Organised by Firefighter Gergely Nagy, based at Avonmouth Fire Station, teams and crews have been encouraged to burn 1945 calories during a gym workout to honour the historic event. Those taking part have been uploading their progress via a shared leaderboard and those with the fastest time will win a prize.
With many military veterans working within AF&RS, as well as staff with relatives who may have fought in WW2, and subsequent conflicts, this day serves as a reminder to honour all those who have served their country and those who have lost their lives as a result of conflict or terrorism.