Scouts play leading role in VE80 commemorations
This year sees the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Once again, Scouts are showing themselves at their best, taking a leading role in both local community and national commemorations.
We're so proud of the way that Scouts are marking the anniversaries of the return of peace: first in Europe on VE Day, 8 May, then throughout the world on VJ Day, 15 August.
Here are just some of the ways Scouts are getting involved
Hundreds of Scout Groups across the UK are taking part in VE Mail. They’re responding to Chief Scout’s Dwayne Fields’ call to request a letter from a living Second World War veteran. The Scouts are then writing letters back, thanking them for their sacrifice and reflecting on the freedoms gained for them.
Organised by The Together Coalition, this is a brilliant way to connect and reflect across the generations. ‘Our Scouts are finding out what it would have been like living at that really difficult time,’ says Dwayne.
Nearly 80,000 Scouts are already wearing their VE Day 80 badges with pride on their uniform, showing their respect. Others are also wearing the special commemorative scarf.
Sales are raising funds for the Royal British Legion, supporting the veterans of the Second World War as well as more recent conflicts.
On Monday 5 May, 12 Scouts from Scotland and London formed part of the procession and two in the royal box, accompanying veterans. A further 250 Scouts from across South East England watched the procession and fly past in central London. They were joined by Chief Scout, Dwayne Fields to support and commemorate VE Day 80.
On the BBC’s live coverage of the event, Dwayne reminded the public of Scouts’ crucial role during the Second World War. ‘In the 1940s we had Scouts painting white lines along the curb to stop people tripping during blackouts, building Anderson shelters, administering first aid and supporting refugees. We even had Scouts travelling by boat across the Dunkirk to play their part.’
Dwayne also explained Scouts’ role in the procession: ‘They’re here to witness, speak to and learn from the people they meet. They’re going to take what they see and hear here back to their Groups.’
On the afternoon of 5 May, I supported two Cubs and a Scout at a special street party hosted by the Prime Minister. Lily, Archie, and Kaif spoke to the Prime Minister, enjoyed cake and sandwiches with the veterans, and played games with young people from other youth organisations.
On the anniversary of VE Day itself, 8 May 2025, over 50 Scouts from across the UK were invited to attend the Service. During the service, Scouts Calla and Keinan from Lewisham also had a very special role, giving out flowers to the veterans.
King’s Scout, Abbie McFarlane was honoured to lead the Rededication of Peace, the final reading of the service:
‘Will you work for peace and reconciliation in your homes and communities and strive to work for peace and goodwill in the world?
Will you commit to an honest remembrance of the cost of war and resist all forms of evil, hatred and injustice?
Will you recognise that the freedoms and responsibilities you have were hard won, and exercise them with gratitude, humility and generosity?
On this 80th anniversary of VE Day, let us dedicate ourselves anew to one another, and to the cause of peace, justice and liberty, as people of faith hope and love.’
It was a potentially nerve-wracking moment for Abbie, in the presence of HM The King and other dignitaries, but she carried off her duties with aplomb.
On a chilly but memorable night at Horse Guard’s Parade, London, 400 Scouts from across the UK also attended the spectacular VE Day Concert. Presenter, Zoe Ball gave them a special shout out. She also sat and danced with them when she wasn’t on stage!
They were watched proudly from the Royal Box by their Patron, HM The King, and Joint President, HRH The Princess of Wales, as well as other members of the Royal Family. All Scout Counties and Nations were offered tickets to attend and for many Scouts, this was their first visit to London.
We heard plenty of positive feedback from the public for those Scouts joining the commemorations. However (and we feel sure the King would agree) the most important guests were the Second World War veterans themselves, including 107-year-old Harry Richardson, who sat in pride of place next to King Charles III.
Harry’s advice to the next generation was televised for the crowd and those watching at home: ‘Do your best and don’t complain too much.’
There was a sense of pride and awe in Westminster Abbey – remembering the joy of VE Day, but also the sadness of the war. It was certainly an experience being there in person.
King’s Scout, Abbie McFarlane
A credit to the movement
All the Scouts and volunteers who've supported the commemorations so far are fantastic ambassadors for the movement.
I wish to extend a huge thank you to all the Scouts, Explorers and Leaders who participated in the VE Day 80 events. Their presence brought a sense of pride, discipline, energy and enthusiasm to the occasion, which didn't go unnoticed. The Scouts and Explorers were dignified and respectful and their presence played a vital role in the success of the events.
Jonathan Martin LVO, Director, Project Delivery and Major Events at DCMS.
Looking ahead to VJ Day
On 15 August 2025, we'll be commemorating VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day). This was effectively the end of the Second World War across the world. Not only did the fighting cease, prisoners of war, including many from the UK, could finally return to their homes and families.
A VJ Day blanket badge will be available to commemorate this important date, and we'll also share details of how Scouts will be involved marking the anniversary itself.
