This Is Your Victory

This extremely poignant poem was written by Teresa Harrison-Best in commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day in London, 8th May 1945.

After looking through personal accounts and film reels about the celebrations she decided to write a snap shot of the day. Although V J day was later, and it was also a dreadfully sad time for many, she thought the poem would just concentrate on the day’s timeline.

‘This Is Your Victory’

Their voices were hoarse from the cheering
but still they continued to sing.
A people united in triumph
and a future that freedom could bring.

Crowds now gathered in thousands
to listen to Churchill’s address.
Wearing his boiler suit proudly
and the roars of approval expressed.

The victory belonged to the people,
a conviction so heartfelt and real.
As war had savaged a nation
not once did they turn on their heel.

Three Lancaster’s flew over London,
dropping their red and green flares.
With crowds transfixed in that moment,
an answer to everyone’s prayers.

Trafalgar had seen nothing like it
as the thousand of people converged.
Civvies and forces rejoicing,
classes and ranks gaily merged.

Two princesses turned up to join them,
now mingling in with the crowd.
‘A seething mass of humanity’
of a nation so stoically proud.

A conga was snaking quite cheery,
gaining momentum and drive.
The face of the people were magic,
a hope that was coming alive.

They flocked to Buckingham Palace
the volume of people was great.
‘We want the King’ they chanted
and they didn’t have long to wait.

Phenomenal was the crowds’ sheer excitement
as their King and Queen then appeared.
Seven times they came to the balcony
to the sound of tumultuous cheers.

Two searchlights were shining so brightly
above the dome of St Paul’s.
Victorious and bold was the message,
Great Britain was never to fall.

The revelries and parties continued
well into the depths of the night.
Even the rain and the thunder
couldn’t dampen the revellers might.

The White Cliffs of Dover were safe now
and the bluebirds could fly overhead.
Little Jimmy could go to his room
to sleep in his own little bed.

VE Day outside Buckingham Palace

Written by Teresa Harrison-Best