As part of a year-long initiative to honour and commemorate the sacrifices made during Victory in Europe (VE) and Victory over Japan (VJ) Days, The Veterans Charity marked VE Day with a poignant and symbolic act of remembrance.
A specially crafted commemorative wreath was dramatically delivered to the historic former RAF Predannack airfield on Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula—by air.
In a coordinated tribute, 824 Squadron of the Royal Naval Air Station (RNAS) airlifted the wreath aboard a Merlin helicopter. Upon arrival, the crew was met by Lt Cdr “Tank” Murray RN, Mr Iain Henderson—Trustee of The Veterans Charity—and a tri-service cohort of veterans. This carefully planned reception also included personnel from HMS Seahawk, who formed up at the dispersal point alongside military transport vehicles in anticipation of the poignant delivery.
The hand-made wreath was ceremoniously presented by one of the aircrew to Mr Henderson, following which the Merlin helicopter departed to resume its vital training role in support of the Royal Navy Fleet.
A Journey of Remembrance and Education
The wreath will now embark on an educational and commemorative journey throughout the country, spreading the message of remembrance and sacrifice to new generations. In August, it will be joined by a second wreath created in dedication to VJ Day.
What sets these wreaths apart is their unique construction: they are hand-made by veterans using entirely natural materials. The poppies are crafted from scallop shells—sourced locally—each one painted to reflect different elements of wartime sacrifice. Red petals represent fallen military personnel, purple pays tribute to the animals caught up in conflict, yellow honours the munitions and factory workers who supported the war effort on the home front, and a pair of petals in cornflower blue acknowledge the contribution of French forces.
Local veterans took part in crafting the poppies, turning remembrance into a shared act of creation and reflection. This initiative continues the Charity’s mission to “keep remembrance moving,” a campaign that began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the iconic Land’s End signpost—a symbolic site for many of The Veterans Charity’s national launch events—has served as a key starting point for the wreaths’ journeys.
The Final Tribute in November
Both wreaths will complete their commemorative journey this November, culminating in a final act of remembrance. These journeys not only serve as a tribute to those who served but also as a bridge between generations, educating the public and fostering deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of wartime service and sacrifice.
Through this initiative, The Veterans Charity continues to find new and moving ways to ensure that remembrance remains relevant, participatory, and deeply felt.
