    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [May 4, 1995]
    [Pages 639-640]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of the 50th Anniversary of the
    Allies' Victory in Europe: V-E Day, 1995
    May 4, 1995

        As we commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of V-E Day, a grateful
    nation remembers all of the brave Americans who served in World War II.
        In the spring of 1945, after almost six years of fighting, the war
    in Europe came to a dramatic close. As word of German General Jodl's
    surrender in Reims spread around the globe,

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    celebrations broke out from New York and London to Paris and Moscow.
    Still, celebrations were tempered as President Truman reminded a
    worldwide radio audience that the war was not yet won. Many thousands
    more were yet to die fighting for the principles we hold so dear.
        Half a century later, as Americans gather to mark the triumph over
    fascism and tyranny in Europe, we remember all those who fought to
    preserve our liberty. We honor our distinguished veterans--those who
    came home and those who did not return. We also honor their families--
    those who contributed to the battlefield victory through their efforts
    and prayers on the home front. These valiant men and women toiled to
    support and defend the cause of freedom fifty years ago, and they
    succeeded in preserving its blessings for generations to come. On behalf
    of Americans everywhere, I salute these heroes. They have our eternal
    gratitude.
        Best wishes to all for a memorable observance.

                                                                Bill Clinton