May 8th is a significant date for western nations, marking the liberation of the Netherlands and victory in Europe in World War II. On this day in 1945, Allied Forces of WWII accepted the unconditional surrender of Germany’s armed forces, bringing an end to all German military operations. The 80th anniversary of the event was celebrated across Europe and North America.
In Millbrook, the event was commemorated with a small procession to the cenotaph, where the Canadian flag was lowered in honour of those who fought in that conflict. A brief ceremony followed with words of gratitude for the victory, honour for those whose sacrifices made it possible, and a call for peace in these troubled times expressed by Millbrook Legion President Diann Corfe, St. Thomas Anglican Minister Reverend Rob Ross and Cavan Monaghan Mayor Matthew Graham.
Despite the sombre tone of the event, it was after all, a celebration, which meant there was cake, decorated with a Canadian flag.