The end of the Second World War, 79 years ago, was commemorated at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Brussels on Wednesday.
On 8 May 1945, Nazi Germany’s surrender, marking the end of this deadly conflict, was announced to the Europe, after the Germans had signed their surrender to the Allies the night before.
To commemorate the war’s ending, which caused between 40 and 60 million deaths, including over six million Jews, the Belgian Defence Ministry held its annual ceremony at the base of the Congress Column, where the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located.
Credit: Belgian Ministry of Defence
The ceremony aimed not only to remember, but also to commit to the principle of democracy, according to one of the three young individuals invited to speak at the commemoration. They also highlighted the necessity of remaining vigilant against real threats to democratic values.
In attendance were a representative of the King, Defence Minister Ludivine Dedonder, Defence Chief Admiral Hofman, Senate President Stephanie D’Hose, and Chamber President Eliane Tillieux.
The King’s representative laid a wreath on behalf of the royals, followed by a minute’s silence in tribute to the victims. Numerous other wreaths were laid, including those from foreign ambassadors. He also rekindled the eternal flame.
Credit: Belgian Ministry of Defence
The ceremony concluded with the European Union’s Anthem of Joy and Belgium’s national anthem, the Brabançonne.
In addition to V-day, this year, in September, it will be exactly 80 years since Allied troops liberated Belgium. They entered our country simultaneously in several places. In ten days, they succeeded in liberating most of the country.
That's why this year, festivities and commemorations are being held in a number of towns and cities to mark this 80th anniversary.
