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Victory Day for World War II, 2026

SignedMay 7, 2026
Proclamation·Donald Trump·Commemoration
Why This Matters

May 8, 2026, is now officially designated as Victory Day for World War II to honor the sacrifices made during the war.

This means that Americans will have a dedicated day to reflect on and celebrate the contributions of those who fought in World War II.
All Americans, especially veterans and their families, will be encouraged to participate in commemorative events and activities.
What You Need to Know

May 8, 2026, will be recognized as Victory Day for World War II, celebrating the Allied victory over Nazi Germany and honoring the sacrifices of American soldiers. The proclamation emphasizes the importance of remembering the more than 250,000 American lives lost during the conflict and the broader fight for freedom and liberty. It calls on the nation to reflect on the courage and dedication of those who served, both on the battlefield and at home.

This proclamation serves to remind Americans of the historical significance of World War II and the lessons learned about the cost of freedom. By designating a specific day for this remembrance, the government aims to foster a sense of unity and appreciation for the sacrifices made during a pivotal moment in history. The celebration will coincide with the 250th anniversary of American independence, linking the legacy of past sacrifices to the ongoing commitment to defend liberty today.

As the date approaches, communities may organize events and activities to honor veterans and educate the public about the war's impact. Schools, organizations, and local governments are likely to play a role in promoting awareness and participation in these commemorative efforts.

Who is affected?

All Americans, especially veterans and their families, will be encouraged to participate in commemorative events and activities.

Read on Federal Registerfederalregister.gov
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Presidential Actions

VICTORY DAY FOR WORLD WAR II, 2026

Proclamations

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

As we celebrate Victory Day for World War II –- we celebrate America’s monumental triumph over tyranny and evil in Europe, led by the might of our Armed Forces and those of our Allies.  On May 8, 1945, the iron grip of Nazi Germany shattered, and news of victory swept across our great Nation and the world, marking a decisive turning point in the history of freedom.   

From the legendary storming of the beaches of Normandy to the frigid, hard-fought defense during the Battle of the Bulge, the courage of countless American soldiers carried the Allied cause across the deserts of North Africa and the forests of western Europe until the forces of the Nazi regime collapsed in ruin.  Their sacrifice, together with the unwavering resolve of millions of men and women on the home front, drove tyranny to its knees and paved the way for the Allied powers to secure their resounding victory against Imperial Japan nearly 4 months later.

The fight for liberty came at a staggering cost.  More than 250,000 Americans laid down their lives in the fight against the Nazi regime.  Their heroic sacrifice reminds us that the sacred freedoms we cherish are forged in sacrifice and must be fiercely defended both at home and abroad.  Let us remember them, and the millions of innocent souls who endured horrendous atrocities, and lost their lives, at the hands of national socialism.

As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, we carry their legacy forward by ensuring our Armed Forces remain the most dominant in the world, ready to safeguard our sovereignty, to confront any threat, and preserve the flame of liberty they fought so valiantly to defend.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 8, 2026, as a day in celebration of Victory Day for World War II.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventh day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.

​​​​​​DONALD J. TRUMP

Victory Day for World War II, 2026 — PILLARS