The six year conflict claimed the lives of more than 580,000 Commonwealth troops and 60,000 thousand British civilians.
The Queen joined around 1,000 veterans in a service of thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey.
In the service, the Archbishop of Canterbury thanked veterans for “victory over the greatest darkness of the 20th century, perhaps of all history."
Auxiliary Territorial Service veteran, Barbara Hurman addressed the congregation, recognising the residual nature of war.
“We pray for nations still devastated by wars and for those who suffer the effects or memories of past wars.”
Young Navy Cadets also joined the thanksgivings.
“Let us give thanks for the selfless and courageous service and sacrifice of those who brought peace to Europe,” read Rebecca Holloway.
Crowds gathered in London to watch the military parade. Led by 400 members of the armed forces, the last surviving veterans of the 2nd world war paraded through the streets.
At the parade, The Prince of Wales took the salute with delighted veterans rising from their wheelchairs to shake his hand.
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