Victory Day

[Webb]

Victory Day

Victory Day or 9 May marks the capitulation of Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union in the Second World War (also known as the Great Patriotic War in the Soviet Union). It was first inaugurated in the fifteen republics of the Soviet Union, following the signing of the surrender document late in the evening on 8 May 1945 (after midnight, thus on 9 May, by Moscow Time). The Soviet government announced the victory early on 9 May after the signing ceremony in Berlin. Though the official inauguration happened in 1945 (which means it has been celebrated since 1946), the holiday became a non-labour day only in 1965 and only in some of the countries.

[hertzie]

Hi Webb, though in Holland we celebrate our liberation at May 5th, knowing what my parents went through I always celebrate May 8th too.

Therefore: thank you Allies what you did for us to free us from Nazi terror !!!! I at least will never forget, but fortunately there are many

[ftldave]

From RT: "Victory Day is one of the most important holidays for Russia, as it marks the capitulation of Nazi Germany to the Soviet Union in the Second World War on May 9, 1945. Tanks, fighter jets & unrivalled missile defense systems -- the Victory Day parade will stage a military show in the heart of Moscow to mark the 69 year of WWII Victory.

Sixty-nine warplanes and helicopters, 149 military vehicles and over 11,000 troops featuring in Moscow’s Red Square parade to mark the 69th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany in World War II."

As usual, the Russian aviation forces close the big parade. Unusual this year was a TU-160 Blackjack bomber accompanied by an IL-78 tanker, simulating air-to-air refueling.

On YouTube:
VICTORY DAY PARADE - MOSCOW - MAY 9, 2014

[Webb]

I wasn't even aware that Victory Day was the same as VE Day. VE Day and VJ Day don't have much significance to Americans.