Victory in Europe on May 8, 1945, brought elation to war-weary Allied nations. But the war was far from over. With Nazi Germany defeated, strategic minds in Washington and the Pacific accelerated planning and preparations for “Operation Downfall,” the grim task of invading Japan’s home islands and bringing a true end to World War II.

In late March 1945, the war in Europe was obviously won, and the critical questions for the Allies became where to strike further into Germany and how and where to link up with the Russians coming from the East.

On May 8, 2025, the world marks 80 years since Victory in Europe (VE) Day—a moment of historic gravity and deep emotion.

On May 8, 1948, George C. Marshall paid a deeply moving tribute to President Harry S. Truman

February 23, 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of the iconic flag raising on Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima (February 19 – March 26, 1945).

In June 1944, only days after his eighteenth birthday, Robert Pogue of Cincinnati was inducted into the U.S. Army. On Christmas night, he left for a port of embarkation to France.

This winter marks the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge – one of America’s most ferocious and bloody fights during World War II, and a pivot point in history when strong-willed leadership in the face of adversity made all the difference.

Eighty years ago, in one of the most iconic moments of World War II, General Douglas MacArthur declared, “I have returned” upon his triumphant landing on Leyte Island in the Philippines.

As General Marshall demonstrated throughout his storied career, strong and effective leaders understand the importance of teamwork, listening to their partners and sharing credit for success.