TO mark VE Day the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Lt Col Patrick Holcroft, has written this tribute:
On Friday, May 8, 1945, the armed forces of Nazi Germany surrendered unconditionally, bringing an end to the Second World War in Europe. The United Kingdom and her Empire had fought throughout six long years, enduring extremes of hardship, suffering and sorrow which touched every family.
Although victory in Europe was won with the immense help of Allies, the British had stood alone against Nazi Germany for more than a year as the conflict became a global struggle.
The Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire Patrick Holcroft.
It is a matter of the most profound regret to me that current restrictions relating to the Covid-19 pandemic prevent us from marking the 75th Anniversary of this momentous achievement and from giving thanks to those whose efforts contributed to the preservation of the freedoms we take for granted today.
Throughout the County, events and services have had to be cancelled and I share the disappointment of all those who had worked so hard in planning these important activities.
During the current lockdown, we have all been inspired by Captain – now Colonel – Tom Moore, a 100 year-old veteran of the Second World War whose astonishing efforts have raised more than £32m for National Health Service charities.
As a representative of his remarkable generation, he is the epitome of fortitude, modesty and good humour. He deserves our thanks and we honour his achievement and those of all citizens of our Country whose efforts and sacrifices helped secure victory in 1945.
I would particularly like to recognise those veterans within Worcestershire, who like Her Majesty, served during the War. May I extend my best wishes to you all, together with my thanks and prayers at this uniquely difficult time.
The Second World War finally ended with the surrender of Japan on August 15, 1945. I very much hope that it will be possible to mark this important anniversary either on the date itself, or on a suitable occasion in the future.”
