VE Day 80
Four days of commemorations will bring the nation together to mark an important moment in our history this month – the 80th anniversary of victory in Europe following the Second World War. These include a military procession and flypast in London, which will be covered by the BBC as part of a series of special programmes. At 0900 on May 8, town criers will undertake the VE Day proclamation as flags are raised across the UK, and at noon pipers will play a specially written tune entitled Celebratum from the top of the country’s four highest peaks. At 1830 cathedrals and churches will sound their bells, then at 2130 more than one thousand beacons and hundreds of lights of peace will be lit.
The government has allowed pubs to open until 0100 so that festivities can continue into the evening. Visit ve80.com for further details.
Cup flashback
The Royal Engineers will celebrate the most famous day in their footballing history as they lock horns with Old Etonians. The clash marks the 150th anniversary of the Sappers – whose current squad boasts the likes of army star Spr Ryan Fagan – lifting the FA Cup, when they beat the same opponents to win the world-famous trophy. Staged at Kings Bastion, Gillingham, the match forms part of a family fun day with a display from the Red Devils parachute display team and music from the army engagement band.
Doors open at 1200, with kick-off at 1600.
Pool prizes
The Aldershot Garrison Sports Centre hosts three days of pool action from today at the Inter-Corps Water Polo, Diving and Swimming Championships. Defending champions the Infantry and Royal Army Medical Service retained the men’s and women’s swimming titles respectively last time out, while the Royal Logistic Corps claimed both water polo prizes. Can their success continue in 2025? Personnel will also hope to impress army team managers with the Inter-Services looming in July.
Gen up
Threats and opportunities posed by UAS will be the topic of discussion at the NCO Academy’s next Tea and Toast Talk session. SSgt Andy White (KRH) and Cpl Fergus Williams-Tanton (RL) from the UAS Centre in Lulworth will brief listeners on the fast-evolving capability and what junior leaders must do to operate with drones effectively, including courses.
Sign up to the talks via the NCO Academy Defence Connect page.
Revenge in sight
Cricket's short format showdown returns to Lord’s with the army looking to regain the Inter-Services Twenty20 crown. A shock loss to the Royal Navy – who went on to claim their first title since 2010 – saw the soldiers miss out last season. They will be hoping for a perfect start when they face the Royal Air Force at Hampshire County Cricket Club’s Utilita Bowl on May 20. The action switches to the home of cricket two days later, when the senior service will be in their sights. The day also features a UK armed forces women’s fixture, as well as the RAF taking on the navy.
Visit interservicest20.co.uk for tickets.
