A charity highlighted a lack of awareness among Gen Z adults regarding the significance of VE Day, which marks the end of World War II in Europe. According to a survey conducted by the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE) to coincide with VE Day commemorations, only 63% of UK adults correctly identify VE Day as the end of the Second World War, with this awareness dropping to 34% among Gen Z individuals born between 1997 and 2012. The RBVE emphasized the need to bridge the gap in public understanding of military history.
The survey, involving 2,052 adults, revealed that 80% of UK adults consider VE Day integral to British identity, with 79% believing it plays a crucial role in educating younger generations about history. However, only 23% of respondents feel that younger generations truly comprehend the experiences of veterans who continue to grapple with the aftermath of their service.
To mark the 81st anniversary of VE Day, the RBVE launched the Still Serving campaign, featuring a portrait series by renowned British photographer Rankin. The series showcases nine veterans, including individuals like former infantry soldier Che Smitherman, veteran Holly Stroud, and others who served in various capacities.
The RBVE’s campaign aims to spotlight today’s veterans and emphasize the ongoing support needed post-service. Surprisingly, only 40% of UK adults correctly identify the “Tommy” figure as a symbol representing all military personnel, with a significant discrepancy between generational awareness levels.
Rankin emphasized the importance of connecting past and present through the portraits, underscoring the ongoing nature of service and personal sacrifices made. Veteran Purna Gurung echoed this sentiment, noting the portraits’ role in representing every generation of service, including those impacted by more recent conflicts.
Lisa Farmer OBE, the BVE chief executive, emphasized that VE Day serves as a moment for national reflection on the enduring impact of service across generations. The “Still Serving” campaign seeks to convey that the story of service did not end in 1945 but continues to this day, with Rankin’s portraits providing a poignant and human perspective on veterans’ experiences.
By collaborating with Rankin, the RBVE aims to bring to light the personal stories of veterans, particularly those who served post-1945, showcasing the individuals behind the iconic “Tommy” symbol. The campaign strives to bridge the gap between historical symbols and the lived experiences of modern-day veterans, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for their service.