Starmer praises the armed forces for their “selfless dedication” ahead of anniversary | VE Day
Keir Starmer praised the “selfless dedication” of those serving in the military on VE Day’s anniversary as the government unveiled a new £50 million support system for veterans.
Since the end of World War II in Europe, the Prime Minister said in an open letter to Mark in 80 years that the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces were a debt that could never be fully paid.
He said the country would show how grateful it was in the event commemorating VE Day, which marked the end of the battle on May 8, 1945.
“It is also a victory over the summoning power of hatred, tyranny and evil,” Stamer wrote. “Ve Day is an opportunity to admit once again that our debts to those who achieve it can never be fully paid.”
A parade of 1,300 military personnel and civilians will be held on Monday, accompanied by representatives of NATO, Ukraine and Commonwealth Armed Forces, as well as red arrows and Voyager transporting aircraft past.
There will be another two minutes of silence at noon Thursday, followed by a service attended by King Charles at Westminster Abbey.
As part of a special event, street parties will be held in towns and towns across the UK – including community tea parties, dress-up events from the 1940s and gatherings on World War II warships.
In addition, nearly 30,000 displays of ceramic poppies will be on display at the Tower of London.
On Monday, the government will announce a £50 million service fund to support veterans to provide housing, employment, health and welfare.
The new heroic service is to help fulfill the Labour Party’s declaration commitments to implement the armed forces covenant and funding initiatives, some of whom face efforts to integrate into civilian lives after serving in the military.
Defense Secretary John Healey said: “This country should fulfill its obligations to those who defend our country and it is right that the government immediately raises our support for them.
“The armed forces make most people successful for life, but when veterans need help, support is often a piece of postal code. Our program to develop UK Veterans Support Services will work with beneficial health, employment and housing charities and receive the largest government funding for veterans ever.”
Starmer said his ideas would turn to those who served in World War II and those who carry the “torch of the legacy” today.
“Besides our history and values, service is another great force that binds a nation together,” he said. “So this week, I hope you know: the entire country is inspired by the selfless dedication of your role model.”