VE DAY 75: First Minister pays tribute to those who lived through the Second World War.

Seventy-five years ago today, the nation celebrated Victory of Europe.

Across Wales people came together to share whatever they had –sugar, biscuits or beer – to celebrate in the streets.

That momentous day must have seemed very far away during the long years of conflict and strict rationing.

Today, we pay tribute to all those who lived through the Second World War.

To all the Servicemen and women who fought, to the mothers who cared for their children during air raids, the families who sheltered evacuated children and all those on the home front who kept the war effort going - working on the land, in factories, in mines; in our communities.

To all those who served, during the war.

We also remember the unity of the Commonwealth nations, who joined together to fight the spread of fascism.

Today, because of coronavirus, we won’t be re-creating the street parties of 75 years ago. But we can look to the war generation for strength and inspiration to help us through this period.

From our own homes, let’s stand united and thankful for this society which we benefit from today.

Let’s reflect on what was achieved in the wake of the Second World War. And let’s remember those who were loved and lost.

We remember you.

We thank you.

Your sacrifices will never be forgotten.

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