Medway marks VE Day

Commemorations are being held across our towns to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in Europe.

Today (Thu 8 May), Medway honours the World War II veterans and civilians who fought and supported the war effort, highlighting Medway’s naval, military and cultural contributions. We spoke to Cllr Nina Gurung, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and Leasure, to find out what has been planned around the commemoration. We also speak to the Royal Engineers Museum and look at other events happening throughout the day.

For many, the start of proceedings will be the raising of ‘Victory Day’ flags at Rochester Castle, Gun Wharf and the Royal Engineers Museum. Cllr Nina Gurung is eager to point out that Medway Council has set money aside for the festivities. “We passed a special budget at full council”, she says, “and it's been distributed evenly throughout Medway.” As well as ensuring funding was available where needed, Nina also highlights that the traffic management team have made it “very straightforward for people to apply for street parties.” As a result, there are 13 official street parties across Medway, 14 if you include the bring your own picnic event being organised by the Royal Engineers Museum.

Nina comes from a military background and highlights that we have councillors who are armed forces veterans, including Armed Forces Champion Cllr Chrissy Stamp. She is keen for residents to know about the history, heritage and “proud military links. We really need to go all out and remember the sacrifices of our armed forces and the resilience of the Second World War generation, while celebrating the peace and freedom that was so hard fought for.” For Nina, this includes showing the younger generation why we celebrate VE Day and “why it's important. Peace has been brought at such a big cost.”