His successor, former President Donald Trump, announced plans to rename Victory in Europe Day to “Victory in World War II Day.” This change would help to pay tribute to the immense sacrifices the United States made in both World Wars. The proposal, shared on Truth Social, aims to recognize the unique contributions of the U.S. in achieving victory against Nazi Germany and Japan.
Victory in Europe Day, celebrated on May 8, signaled the end of combat operations against Nazi Germany in 1945. Although observed as a national holiday in several countries across the globe, it is not a federal holiday in the United States. In his announcement, Trump emphasized the importance of acknowledging America’s role in the global conflict, stating, “We did more than any other Country, by far, in producing a victorious result on World War II.”
Trump’s plan taps into a deeper cultural craving to commemorate martial conquests. He noted, “That’s because we don’t have leaders anymore, that know how to do so! We are going to start celebrating our victories again!” His comments point to a larger concern — that there is a disconnect between former military decorations and what commemoration looks like today.
The historical context of the proposed name change underscores the immense sacrifices made by various nations during World War II. The United Kingdom was suffering from mass destruction as a result of German bombing raids. Simultaneously, the Soviet Union suffered catastrophic losses, with upwards of 9 million soldiers and 19 million civilians lost in their fight against Nazi Germany’s brutal military operations. The United States continued its military commitment against Japan until September 1945. This came on the heels of the infamous use of atomic weaponry in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
In the United States, that Veterans Day has changed a lot from its original observance. Armistice Day was initially established to celebrate American veterans’ service in the First World War. In 1968, it was made a federal holiday. By the 1950s, it broadened its scope. Now, it honored all American veterans — from World War II to Korean War fighters. Today, we recognize our servicemembers who have fought in many different wars and conflicts on this Veterans Day. Veterans from the Vietnam, Gulf War, and Afghanistan/Iraq Wars.
Trump’s proposal would make Victory in Europe Day the important day. It’s not as obvious what such a change would mean to the public, or how it might impact current commemorations. The conversation around military recognition is still growing and changing. That raises a bigger question about how societies memorialize the past and show respect for those who served.
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