[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 31, Number 18 (Monday, May 8, 1995)]
[Pages 767-768]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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

[[Page 768]]

globe, 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