Veterans, cadets, and dignitaries gather in Ottawa to mark 80 years since V-E Day, reflecting on Canada’s sacrifice in the liberation of Europe.
Veterans, military cadets, and dignitaries gathered at the National War Memorial in Ottawa on Thursday to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (V-E) Day, honouring Canada’s pivotal role in the liberation of Europe during the Second World War.
Among them was Roland Lalonde, a 102-year-old veteran and former infantryman of the Royal 22nd Regiment, who recalled the harrowing battles that led to the liberation of the Netherlands in 1945.
“The Germans were retreating. It wasn’t easy. It was hardship,” Lalonde said, standing near the monument adorned with medals from his service.
A Tribute to Courage: Veterans, Diplomats, and Cadets Stand Together
The ceremony featured solemn moments and stirring tributes. From Last Post to a lone piper’s Lament, veterans stood in silent remembrance while cadets and serving members of Canada’s military paid their respects.
Margriet Vonno, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Canada, offered heartfelt gratitude, recounting how her father, then a child, received his first chocolate bar from Canadian troops.
“The Dutch remember the war vividly… and the courage of those who resisted and those who came to liberate us,” Vonno said.
Canadian Sacrifice Remembered
More than 1 million Canadians and Newfoundlanders served in the Second World War, with over 45,000 lives lost. Canadian forces played a decisive role in the Allied victory—most notably:
- Juno Beach landings on D-Day
- Liberation of the Netherlands
- Service in the Battle of Britain and Battle of the Atlantic
Anita Vandenbeld, a Dutch-Canadian MP, expressed her family’s deep connection to Canadian efforts. Her father, a young boy during the liberation, survived because of Canadian troops. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you,” she told Lalonde.
Memories of Service and the Price of War
Veterans such as Ray Paquette, 95, and Patti Gray, whose uncle died in service, reminded attendees of the cost of war. “We need to remember that war is hell,” Gray said.
Meanwhile, Roger Ellsworth, a Royal Canadian Navy veteran, voiced disappointment that Prime Minister Mark Carney did not attend larger V-E Day events in Europe.
“It would have been a mark of respect,” he noted, though Governor-General Mary Simon represented Canada at ceremonies in the Netherlands.
Honour and Reflection Across Generations
British Army veteran Peter Stainforth, now living in Ottawa, acknowledged Canada’s longstanding reputation for courage among international allies.
“They have always contributed above and beyond,” he said.
His mother, visiting from the U.K., observed that Ottawa’s turnout was smaller than expected, considering Canada’s deep involvement in the war.
A Legacy That Endures
General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff, closed the ceremony with powerful words of remembrance for the thousands who gave their lives.
“Through city after city… in flooded fields and along shattered streets, they fought. Conditions were harsh… every step forward exacted at great cost.”
The message of the day was clear: Canada’s role in securing freedom during one of history’s darkest chapters will not be forgotten.
Stay with Maple News Wire for continued coverage of Canadian military history, public commemorations, and national service.
