Mishall RehmanAbove image: Veterans salute at the ceremony for the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands on Operation DISTINCTION, at the Holten Canadian War Cemetery, Holten, Overijssel, Netherlands, May 4, 2025. Photo by: Corporal Sébastien Lauzier-Labarre, Canadian Armed Forces Combat Camera.
This year marked the 80th anniversary to the end of the bloodiest war in human history.
Over the years, May 8 has become known as Victory in Europe Day, or VE-Day—a day commemorated annually to mark the end of the Second World War in Europe.
“The end of the war was a moment of triumph for Canada, Newfoundland, and their Allies, but also one of solemn reflection as the more than 45,000 Canadians and Newfoundlanders who made the ultimate sacrifice were mourned. These losses would not be in vain,” read a joint statement from the Department of National Defence (DND) and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) on the occasion of VE Day.
A Bloody War Ends
After many months of the Allies slowly making gains in Europe against Nazi Germany, Hitler committed suicide on April 30, 1945. A few days later, on May 5, German forces in North-West Europe surrendered, and VE-Day was officially celebrated three days later.
“On 8 May 1945, Sir Winston Churchill took to the airwaves to declare the unconditional surrender of all German land, sea and air forces in Europe. The announcement marked the end of the Second World War in Europe, and a decisive victory for the Allied forces,” continued the statement.
Since Canada played a significant role in fighting in the Second World War, its end was especially welcome and marked by Canadians at home and in Europe. In Paris, London, and Germany, Canadians joined people on the streets in celebration.
And, according to the Canadian War Museum, in Toronto, thousands danced on the streets while three Mosquito aircraft dropped ticker-tape overhead. Additionally, many cities and towns held religious services in gratitude.
“For Canada, it meant the safe return of hundreds of thousands of troops that had fought so valiantly for freedom, democracy and global stability. Among them was Chief Warrant Officer Anton “Tony” Pearson, who enlisted in 1943 and helped liberate the Netherlands. He was in Oldenburg, Germany, with the South Saskatchewan Regiment when the German surrender was confirmed,” said VAC and DND.
Chief Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Anton Pearson
Born on March 8, 1925, in Melville, Saskatchewan, Chief Warrant Officer (Ret’d) Anton “Tony” Pearson enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1943. Volunteering before conscription, he joined the Royal Canadian Armoured Corps and later served with the South Saskatchewan Regiment in Europe during the Second World War. He fought in Belgium, Holland, and Germany, including the pivotal Battle of the Scheldt.
After the war, he remained in England to help repatriate Canadian troops before returning home in 1946. Pearson continued his service with the Royal Canadian Air Force, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer after 36 years. He received multiple medals for his service.
Since 1980, he has returned to the Netherlands every five years for liberation commemorations. A proud veteran, he lives in Nanaimo, B.C., where he remains active in veterans’ organizations. He was recently honoured as a “Face of Freedom” for the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Scheldt.
Heeding Past Lessons
Amid the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine and rising tensions around the world, May 8 takes on renewed significance this year as a powerful reminder of the lessons hard-won through history.
“At this time of increased volatility in the world, we must never forget that the peace won in the Second World War is not self-sustaining. It requires vigilance, cooperation, and a deep commitment from likeminded allies who believe in the values of democracy, justice, and human dignity. Through organizations like the UN and NATO, Canada is committed to collective defence, international cooperation and the pursuit of a world where conflicts are resolved through diplomacy rather than war,” echoed DND and VAC.
Remembering the Historic Day
To recognize the historical milestone and its significance in the world, commemorative events took place in Canada and the Netherlands.
A Government of Canada delegation travelled to the Netherlands to participate in the annual commemorative ceremony at the Holten Canadian War Cemetery to honour the 1,355 Canadians buried at the site.
A delegation also participated in a commemorative ceremony at 5 Mei Square in Wageningen, the site of Germany’s surrender in 1945.
At home, wreath-laying ceremonies were held at the Victory-Peace Monument in Toronto and the National War Memorial in Ottawa.
