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FM attends VE Day Commemorations
08/05/2005
First Minister Jack McConnell today joined thousands of men, women and children from across the country as Scotland marked the 60th anniversary of VE Day.
Attending Scotland's main national event in Dundee, the First Minister paid tribute to those who gave their lives during the second World War.
At a service in St Andrew's Cathedral, Mr McConnell read a lesson, before laying a wreath on behalf of the people of Scotland. He then joined the crowds to watch as veterans marched through the City of Dundee.
Speaking at the event, the First Minister said:
"Today is an important day. It is a time for sombre reflection. It is a time to pay tribute to those who gave their lives for our freedom.
"Sixty years ago, brave young Scots men and women stood shoulder to shoulder with allies from across the world to free Europe from the evils of facism. They fought with tremendous courage, and their heroism is an inspiration to us all.
"For many Scots, this will be a day of great sadness, but for many others it will also be a day of celebration. The 8th May 1945 marked the end of six years of misery and suffering across Europe. Today, sixty years on, Scotland says thank you."
An estimated 57,000 Scots servicemen died in the WWII conflict.
Both VE Day and VJ Day will be commemorated in a national day of remembrance on 10 July. There will be services and parades in both London and Edinburgh.