VE Day: 80 years on

Broadly I was in favour of an 80th anniversary remembrance of VE Day. There are only some 50 veterans left and it’s right that a new generation knows of the incredible sacrifices made.

I say ‘Broadly’ as I thought it wrong that the Poles were not invited.

They smuggled out the machine that led to the breaking of the Enigma code; they supplied pilots for the Battle of Britain; they fought in many theatres of war, notably Monte Cassino.

Yet they barely got a mention in the coverage.

This was dominated by the Royals, resplendent in military uniforms, though the Princes Andrew and Harry were notable absentees.

Another not mentioned was Edward VIII who might well have been a puppet monarch had Hitler successfully invaded.

Most of the veterans spoke of the dislocation and deprivation of six years of war.

One – Alice Klauber – hoped that war could be avoided in the future as it was so dreadful.

The BBC presented a respectful coverage with historian James Holland providing much context and information.