Essex Freemasons, in partnership with Essex based charity Get Started Art, are bringing VE Day 80 celebrations into local communities with a large-scale initiative distributing over 5,000 Union Jack flags and 10,000 bunting arts and crafts sheets to schools, care homes, and community groups.
The initiative has the full backing of Johnson Beharry VC, Worshipful Master of Richard Clowes Lodge, who will attend the Westminster Abbey service on Thursday, 8th May 2025 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. The service, by invitation only, is part of a week of national celebrations featuring a Cenotaph display, a military procession, and a ceremonial flypast.
VE Day 1945 marked the end of World War II in Europe. As the anniversary approaches, Johnson Beharry VC has praised the Essex Freemasons for engaging with local communities and ensuring that children, the elderly, and others can take part in the remembrance.
“This initiative encourages young people to learn about VE Day in a creative way while also helping care homes and community hubs mark this important occasion,” said Arthur Cooke, of Abbeygate Chapter. “The bunting sheets are double-sided—children can colour one side, while the other remains a traditional Union Jack, making them ideal for public displays.”
Masonic Lodges and chapters at Chingford, Colchester, Hutton, Loughton, Orsett, Southend, and Upminster Masonic Centres have pledged their support in distributing materials and engaging with local groups.
On 15th March 2025, during a discussion at Colchester Masonic Centre about his contribution to the upcoming Essex Province 250th Anniversary Commemorative Book, Johnson Beharry VC shared his thoughts with Essex Provincial Historian Tony Hales. Reflecting on the sacrifices made during World War II, he emphasised the importance of remembering and honouring those who displayed extraordinary courage, when an estimated 40 to 50 million people lost their lives, including 25 million military personnel.
This Essex Freemasons and Get Started Art initiative is set to make a meaningful impact, uniting generations in commemoration and ensuring that the legacy of VE Day lives on.
