Guy Barnett,Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
Today marks the 75th anniversary of VE-Day and the end of the war in Europe during the Second World War.
During this time, Australians were in involved in conflicts across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and the Atlantic against Nazi Germany and its European allies.
Almost one million Australians enlisted for service in the Second World War with more than 10,000 giving their lives in the war in the European theatre, nearly 10,000 more being wounded and almost 8,000 becoming prisoners of war.
Over 30,000 Tasmanians enlisted with over 1,100 killed and nearly 300 decorated for bravery. Around 200 Tasmanian women served overseas, primarily as nurses.
While peace in Europe was celebrated across the nation at the time, the war in the Pacific would continue until August 1945.
This VE Day we remember with thanks the sacrifice and courage of those who served during the Second World War.
Lest we forget.
