Minister Rejects Trump's Odd Move to Renaming VE Day
A minister has hit back at Donald Trump’s idea of renaming VE Day and downplaying Europe’s involvement in the war.
VE Day, observed on May 8, represents Victory in Europe and commemorates the day when World War II came to an end on the continent.
British and American forces kept battling in the Pacific until August 14, 1945, which was marked as Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day).
However, the US President has opted to rename VE Day as 'Victory Day for World War II,' and transform Armistice Day—the commemoration of Germany’s surrender in 1918—into 'Victory Day for World War I.'
"We emerged victorious in both conflicts; no one came even remotely close to our might, valor, or martial prowess," Trump asserted during his remarks over the weekend.
Recalling those remarks made on LBC on Monday, Veterans Minister Alistair Cairns responded sharply, "Yes, I believe it was Victory in Europe Day, but not exclusively due to Europe."
What I'd suggest is that we shouldn't replace the current posters displayed during VE Week. Therefore, our emphasis should be on honoring that generation who gave so much for their nation.
Cairns went on: "Together, we emerged victorious from the conflict. Having collaborated with American units across the globe over the past two decades, I can assert that our partnership is more robust than ever and this trend is set to persist."
LBC host Ben Kentish stated, "Isn't that a direct affront from the current U.S. President to the veterans of Britain?"
“The minister responded, ‘I wouldn’t emphasize this too heavily. This is primarily concerning VE Day and our veterans—the greatest generation. We ought to concentrate on them instead.’”
Kentish urged, "Why don't you stand up for them respectfully, Minister, when it comes to the US --"
However, Cairns swiftly countered by pointing out to the presenter that he had served in the military for 24 years and had recently initiated a program aimed at restructuring governmental support for veterans.
Kentish subsequently proposed that Trump is "disgraciously showing disrespect" towards British servicemen and women through his comments.
Cairns responded, "The alliance emerged victorious from the war. No single country had superior knowledge compared to others. It was a collaborative endeavor to triumph in the Second World War."
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