Honoring the Fallen on May 8th: A Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation

Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation May 8 and May 9

At United Veteran Benefits Agency, we understand the immense sacrifices made by service members and their families during times of war. This is why we take great importance in commemorating May 8th as the Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those Who Lost Their Lives during the Second World War.

The Significance of May 8th

May 8, 1945 marked a pivotal moment in modern history - the day the Allied forces celebrated Victory in Europe (V-E Day) after the Nazi German forces surrendered unconditionally, effectively ending World War II in the European theater. This hard-won victory came at a tremendous cost, with millions of soldiers and civilians losing their lives during the six years of bloody conflict across Europe.

In recognition of this solemn sacrifice, the United Nations General Assembly designated May 8th and 9th annually as a "Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation" through Resolution 59/26 in 2004. This period encourages all UN member states, organizations, and individuals to honor and pay tribute to the victims of history's most devastating war.

Remembering the Fallen Heroes

On this day, we solemnly reflect on the over 85 million military and civilian lives tragically lost during World War II due to the horrors of fascist regimes, genocide, and unrelenting combat across multiple continents. We remember the courageous Allied soldiers who stormed the beaches of Normandy, liberated concentration camps, and fought valiantly to defeat the Axis powers' agenda of hatred and oppression.

We also honor the millions of innocent civilians whose lives were mercilessly taken - those who perished in the Holocaust, suffered through years of occupation, or became casualties of indiscriminate bombings that devastated cities. Their sacrifices must never be forgotten.

Reconciliation and Healing

While May 8th commemorates victory, it is also a time for reconciliation and healing the deep wounds of war. We reflect on the immense human toll and resolve to pursue peace, preventing such widespread suffering from ever happening again.

For veterans who survived the horrors of World War II, this day can bring forth painful memories. At United Veteran Benefits Agency, we strive to support and guide these heroes through the process of obtaining the disability benefits they have earned, allowing them to heal from the visible and invisible scars of their service.

On May 8th, we encourage all Americans to participate in local commemorative events, fly flags at half-staff until noon, and take a moment to honor the legacy of the Greatest Generation and all who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. Their courage, perseverance, and love of freedom must always be remembered and celebrated.