TEN surviving Second World War veterans, including three from the British Indian Army, have written an open letter urging people across the UK to come together and remember the sacrifices made during the war.
Launched on Wednesday (23) by the /Together Coalition, the letter is part of a wider campaign marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, which falls on May 5.
The open letter has been signed by veterans from across the Allied forces, including Flight Lieutenant Colin Bell, Commando John Eskdale, and three Indian Army veterans – Corporal Mirza Khan, Sergeant Mohammad Hussain, and Sergeant Major Rajindar Singh Dhatt.
It is also supported by Stephen Fry, Dame Kelly Holmes, Paul Hollywood and Bear Grylls, who have helped amplify the message ahead of the anniversary.
“To remember what happened isn’t just about honouring the fallen – to remember is also our best hope of avoiding it ever happening again,” the letter said. The veterans call on people to take part in community events, school activities, and national commemorations not just to celebrate, but to reflect on the values of unity, peace and democracy.
It described the VE Day as a moment of “sacrifice, collective action and hardship” and reminded readers of the dangers of fascism and authoritarianism. “It took all of us coming together across classes, religions, nations and races to prevail,” the veterans wrote. “Few of us who fought in that war are still with us today. But those of us who are ask only one thing. That you remember.”
According to a statement, the /Together Coalition is also organising a major media event on April 28 – one week before VE Day – at the Al Manaar Mosque in West London. The event will feature actor Ross Kemp alongside faith leaders, community volunteers, and guests from all backgrounds.
The government-backed initiative is part of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) official programme for the 80th anniversaries of both VE Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, later this summer.
