80 Years Later: Honouring the End of the Second World War at the National Military Cemetery

In 2025, Canada joins the world in marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, a conflict that forever shaped our nation and the global order. It was a war fought on every ocean and continent, demanding courage, sacrifice, and resolve from millions. For Canada, it was a defining moment: more than one million Canadians and Newfoundlanders served in uniform between 1939 and 1945, with tens of thousands never returning home.

At Beechwood Cemetery, the National Military Cemetery of Canada stands as a living memorial to that service. Here, visitors can walk among the graves and memorials of those who fought for freedom, each headstone telling a story of a life dedicated to duty. These are not only markers of the past; they are reminders of the enduring cost of peace.

The end of the Second World War on August 15, 1945, with the surrender of Japan following Victory in Europe Day on May 8, was a moment of collective relief, joy, and reflection. But the victory came at an enormous price: more than 45,000 Canadians lost their lives, and over 55,000 were wounded. Many who returned carried invisible scars that would last a lifetime.

Canada emerged with a stronger international presence, contributing to the founding of the United Nations and becoming a committed partner in the defence of democracy worldwide.

The National Military Cemetery is home to the resting places of many Second World War veterans. From infantry soldiers who fought in the liberation of Europe to sailors who braved the Battle of the Atlantic and aircrew who flew perilous bombing raids over enemy territory, their service is woven into the fabric of this sacred ground.

Walking through the cemetery, visitors can see the names of those who fought in Normandy, Dieppe, Hong Kong, Italy, and countless other theatres of war. As we commemorate this milestone anniversary, it is not enough to simply recall the events. We must reflect on the values for which they fought , freedom, justice, and peace, and ensure they remain cornerstones of our society.

The National Military Cemetery is a place where Canadians can connect with these values in a tangible, personal way. Eighty years on, the Second World War is no longer living memory for most Canadians. The responsibility to remember now rests with us. Through education, commemoration, and personal reflection, we keep alive the stories of those who served and sacrificed.

Visit, Remember, Reflect

In marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, Beechwood Cemetery invites all Canadians to visit the National Military Cemetery. Walk its paths, read the names, and take a moment to consider the lives behind each stone. These grounds are not only a place of rest, they are a place of learning, understanding, and gratitude.

In 1945, Canada helped bring the world back from the brink. In 2025, we honour that legacy, ensuring it continues to inspire and guide us for generations to come.