Earlier on the same day the parade was announced, Trump also floated renaming Veterans Day (currently observed on November 11) as “Victory Day for World War I,” and designating May 8 — VE Day — as “Victory Day for World War II.”
“We won both wars… but we never celebrate anything. That’s because we don’t have leaders anymore that know how to do so!” Trump said in a social media post.
Despite the declaration, no executive order or legislation was issued, and the White House later clarified that Veterans Day is not being renamed.
“We will always honor Veterans Day AND we should commemorate the end of WWI and WWII as VICTORY DAYS!” said Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Historical Context: Armistice, Veterans, and Memorial Days
- Veterans Day (Nov. 11): Originally Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I in 1918. Renamed in 1954 to honor all American veterans after WWII and Korea.
- VE Day (May 8): Marks Victory in Europe in 1945, as Nazi Germany surrendered.
- Memorial Day (last Monday in May): Honors Americans who died in military service.
Unlike the UK, France, and Canada, the U.S. has not traditionally recognized VE Day as a federal holiday, as it was still engaged in war with Japan at the time.
Global and Historical Significance
- The 80th anniversary of VE Day is being commemorated in several allied nations this year.
- Russia marks May 9 as the end of the “Great Patriotic War” with grand parades, noting the Soviet Union’s staggering 27 million wartime deaths.
- The U.S. lost around 418,500 citizens, most of them military personnel, in WWII across both European and Pacific theaters.
Public Reaction & Political Ramifications
The timing and nature of these announcements — including the parade and Trump’s renaming proposals — are generating mixed reactions:
Critics warn of politicization of military traditions and confusion around established commemorations.
Supporters see it as overdue recognition of U.S. military might and sacrifice.
