Vcitory Day for World War II, 2025
President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation declaring May 8, 2025, as Victory Day for World War II. The proclamation commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Allied victory in Europe, paying tribute to the sacrifices of American servicemen and women who fought against Nazi Germany and its allies.
It emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace through strength and expresses renewed commitment to safeguarding the nation's freedom and security.
Arguments For
Commemorating a significant historical event: The proclamation recognizes the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day), marking a pivotal moment in the fight against fascism and the preservation of freedom. The sacrifices and contributions of American soldiers are acknowledged and honored.
Promoting patriotism and national unity: The act serves to reinforce feelings of national pride and unity by celebrating a shared victory and honoring those who fought for the country's values.
Reiterating commitment to peace through strength: The president's statement emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace whilst possessing significant military strength. This could be seen as a policy aspiration and a way of continuing to communicate with allies and adversaries. This section highlights the importance of continued vigilance against threats to liberty and underscores the need for a strong national defense.
Honoring the sacrifices of American soldiers: Millions of Americans and other Allied personnel died in the war; this proclamation reaffirms the commitment to remember their courage and sacrifice.
Arguments Against
Potential for political controversy: The specific wording or context of the proclamation might become a source of contention, particularly in relation to interpretations of history, war legacy, particular foreign relations and the President's previous actions/statements.
Limited practical impact: A proclamation is primarily a symbolic gesture, with little direct impact on policies or resource allocation, so critics could argue that it serves only as symbolic gesture.
Could be viewed as partisan: This proclamation is released by a single individual and could be viewed as lacking the approval of a wider segment of society.
Omission of Allied contributions: The emphasis on American contributions could downplay the significant roles played by other Allied nations in the victory.
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION
This is the formal opening of a presidential proclamation, stating its origin and nature.
Today, our Nation proudly commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Allied Powers’ triumph over national socialism and fascism, and the end of World War II in Europe — one of the most epic victories for forces of freedom in the history of the world. On this Victory Day for World War II, we celebrate the unmatched might, strength, and power of the American Armed Forces, and we commit to protecting our sacred birthright of liberty against all threats, foreign and domestic. In the wake of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States righteously entered the fray of what would become the apex of the eternal battle between good and evil. After nearly 4 years of the darkest and bloodiest chapters ever recorded in human history, more than 250,000 Americans lost their lives in the fight against the Nazi regime. Today and every day, we pay tribute to all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their Nation, their liberty, and the survival of Western civilization. Without the sacrifice of our American soldiers, this war would not have been won, and our world today would look drastically different. May 8, 1945 marks the Allies’ acceptance of Germany’s unconditional surrender — the beginning of the end of years of long, gruesome, and brutal warfare. The millions of souls senselessly lost serve as a reminder of why we must pursue peace through strength. I remain steadfastly devoted to stopping the years of endless foreign wars and preventing the further loss of lives. As I stated during my Inaugural Address, we will measure our success not only by the battles we win but also by the wars we end — and my proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker. As we commemorate Victory Day for World War II, we offer our unending thanks to every patriot from the Greatest Generation who left behind his home and family to fight for our freedom in distant lands. We honor the memories of all those who perished. Above all, we renew our commitment to keeping America and the entire world safe, secure, prosperous, and free. NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 8, 2025, as a day in celebration of Victory Day for World War II. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty‑five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-ninth. DONALD J. TRUMP
The main body of the proclamation reflects on the significance of V-E Day, acknowledges the sacrifices of American soldiers, and expresses a commitment to peace.
It formally proclaims May 8, 2025 as Victory Day for World War II. The closing lines include the President's signature and the date.
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This is a standard White House website publishing note, indicating the source and original publication date of the proclamation.