City of Barrie marks 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day

The City of Barrie and Barrie's Royal Canadian Legion will join communities across Canada in commemorating the 80^th anniversary of the end of the Second World War with May 8 marking Victory in Europe Day (VE Day).

“The courage and sacrifice of the more than 1,000,000 Canadians and Newfoundlanders who served in the Second World War, including the members of our local Primary Reserve infantry regiment, Grey and Simcoe Foresters, secured the freedom we all cherish today,” shared Mayor Alex Nuttall.” We are proud to join Barrie's Royal Canadian Legion Branch 147 in paying tribute to these heroes through a series of events that will preserve their legacy for future generations. Their continued contributions and stories continue to inspire us all.”

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 147 located at 410 St. Vincent Street is honouring the occasion with the following events to pay tribute to our brave soldiers.

• On Wednesday, May 7, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m., join the Barrie Legion for the unveiling of new flag banners honouring Simcoe County WWII Veterans who fought for the freedom we cherish today. Each flag features the names and photos of these brave soldiers, preserving their legacy for future generations.

• On Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Legion is hosting a parade and ceremony to honour and pay tribute to the brave veterans who fought in WWII and to celebrate their legacy and the freedom they secured for us. Throughout the afternoon, there will be music and events for everyone to enjoy. The parade and ceremony will take place on the Legion site.

To learn more about how the City honours our Canadian Armed Forces, visit www.barrie.ca/HonouringCAF.