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Trump Proclaims May 8 as Victory Day for World War II
President Trump issued a proclamation designating May 8, 2026, as Victory Day for World War II to mark the 81st anniversary of Nazi Germany's unconditional surrender. The action calls on federal, state and local officials to observe the date with appropriate ceremonies honoring U.S. and Allied forces that defeated tyranny in Europe.
May 7, 4:58 PM·2m read1 source
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WASHINGTON, May 7, 2026 — President Trump issued a proclamation today declaring May 8, 2026, Victory Day for World War II.
The proclamation recognizes the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945, which ended the war in Europe. It states that the victory came through the efforts of the U.S. Armed Forces and Allied partners.
Scope of the observance reaches all federal agencies, state governments, local communities and American citizens. The text directs the U.S. flag to fly on all federal buildings and grounds on May 8, 2026, and encourages similar displays by states, municipalities and private citizens.
It also calls for participation by schools, churches and civic organizations in programs, ceremonies and activities that honor veterans of the European theater.
The proclamation changes the prior state in which no fixed federal observance existed for the European victory date separate from the broader Memorial Day or Veterans Day commemorations. The new designation takes effect for the 2026 calendar year and establishes an annual precedent for May 8.
Downstream, the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs must now incorporate the observance into their 2026 public schedules and event planning. State governors and legislatures gain a formal federal cue to pass complementary resolutions or proclamations.
The White House and federal agencies will coordinate flag protocols and public messaging by early 2026. Schools and veterans service organizations receive a defined annual date around which to schedule educational programs on the Allied campaign against Nazi Germany.
This marks the first formal presidential proclamation since the 75th anniversary in 2020 that singles out the May 8, 1945, surrender for dedicated national recognition. m. Central European Time on May 8, 1945, following the fall of Berlin and the suicide of Adolf Hitler.
