City Commemorates 80th Anniversary of V-E Day

The City of Pembroke is proud to honour the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (V-E) Day, which marked the end of the Second World War in Europe on May 8, 1945.

To commemorate this historic occasion, Mayor Ron Gervais has authorized the flying of the Canadian Red Ensign flag outside City Hall from May 5 to 9.

The Canadian Red Ensign, which served as Canada’s de facto national flag until 1965, was the banner under which Canadians served during the Second World War. From 1922 to 1957, the version featuring green maple leaves in the shield was carried proudly by Canadian forces, and it flew as Canadians and Allied nations celebrated victory in 1945.

“In recognition of the bravery and sacrifice of more than one million Canadian women and men who served in Europe from 1939 to 1945, we are honoured to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe,” said Mayor Ron Gervais. “It is our duty to remember their legacy and ensure future generations understand the cost of peace and freedom.”

The commemorative Red Ensign was donated to the City by Councillor Ian Kuehl and was formally presented to Mayor Gervais and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 72.