Samuel Kurtz, Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, joined fellow Members of the Senedd, veterans, and community leaders at the Welsh Parliament to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, the momentous occasion that signalled the end of the Second World War in Europe.
The commemorative event honoured the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of all who contributed to the war effort, from frontline soldiers to members of the Merchant Navy and those supporting from the home front. Testimonies were shared from service personnel across the Commonwealth, reflecting the truly global scale of the conflict and the shared sacrifices made in the pursuit of peace.
Reflecting on the event, Samuel Kurtz MS said:
“Marking and commemorating VE Day in the Senedd, and hearing the testimonies of servicemen and women from across the Commonwealth, from those in the Merchant Navy, and from all who contributed to the war effort in any way, was a humbling experience.
“On this significant anniversary, we remember the bravery and sacrifice of all who fought for our freedom – especially the thousands from across West Wales who left their homes and families, many of whom never returned. We will remember them.
“As we celebrate the triumph of peace and freedom over tyranny and evil, it’s hard not to be reminded of the current war raging in Eastern Europe. Peace is spoken of with ease, but achieved only through great effort and sacrifice.”