JLGB To Proudly Participate in VE Day 80 National Commemorations

Tue 11 Mar 2025 08:30

PRESS RELEASE

📍 For Immediate Release

JLGB To Proudly Participate in VE Day 80 National Commemorations

The Jewish Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade (JLGB) is honoured to play a significant role in the United Kingdom’s national commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. As part of the Youth United Organisations, JLGB is contributing to events that pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the Second World War generation.

Monday 5 May – Parade and Procession

Seven JLGB adult volunteers and young leaders will proudly march in the grand military procession from Parliament Square to Buckingham Palace, joining over 1,300 participants from the Armed Forces, uniformed services, and youth organisations. Two JLGB young leaders will also be present in the Grandstand at the Queen Victoria Memorial, witnessing the historic flypast featuring the Red Arrows and other aircraft .

Monday 5 May – 10 Downing Street Street Party

JLGB is delighted to have four representatives attending the street party at 10 Downing Street: one adult volunteer leader and three young members aged 8, 11, and 12. This event celebrates community spirit and honours the legacy of those who served during the war.

Thursday 8 May – Westminster Abbey Service

Thirteen JLGB representatives will attend the Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, a solemn occasion to honour the sacrifices made during the Second World War . Among them, four young JLGB members will have the privilege of presenting flowers to veterans, symbolising gratitude and remembrance.

Thursday 8 May – Celebration Concert at Horse Guards Parade

In a testament to JLGB’s commitment to youth engagement, 300 JLGB members, volunteers, staff, and their families have been allocated tickets to the star-studded celebration concert at Horse Guards Parade. This event, broadcast live on BBC One, will feature performances by renowned artists and readings commemorating VE Day .

Honouring JLGB’s Oldest Member

JLGB proudly salutes one of its oldest member and Honorary JLGB Colonel, 100-year-old Normandy veteran Mervyn Kersh. Mervyn, who joined JLGB at the age of 9, landed on Gold Beach three days after D-Day and played a crucial role in ensuring the British Army had the necessary vehicles to advance through Normandy. His unwavering dedication serves as an inspiration to all.

JLGB’s active participation in VE Day 80 events underscores its enduring commitment to honouring the past while empowering the next generation to build a better future.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Alice.Brostoff@JLGB.org

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About JLGB:

This year celebrating its 130th anniversary, the Jewish Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade (JLGB) is a national Jewish youth organisation that provides young people with opportunities for personal development, leadership training, and community service, proudly rooted in Jewish values and British traditions.

Be yourself.
Be your best self.

For over 125 years, young Jewish people have been discovering just how brilliant they can be and how they can make the world a better place through JLGB. Whether you're 8 or 18, whatever you want to be, join in and be your best self with us!

Join JLGB here