VICTORY DAY PARADE | UPSC

WHAT IS VICTORY DAY?

• Victory Day marks the end of World War II and the victory of the Allied Forces in 1945.
• Adolf Hitler had shot himself on April 30.
• On May 7, German troops surrendered, which was formally accepted the next day, and came into effect on May 9.

WHAT IS THIS CELEBRATION ALL ABOUT ?

• The celebrations are expected to include 64,000 participants.
• In Moscow, 14,000 military personnel will march through Red Square.
• Additionally, 50,000 more troops will march through 27 other cities that have military units.

BACKGROUND :

• The British Indian Armed Forces during World War-II were one of the largest Allied Forces contingents which took part in the North and East African Campaign, Western Desert Campaign and the European Theatre against the Axis powers.

• The Indian Military not only fought on all fronts, but also ensured logistic support .
• Military support also included weapons, ammunitions, equipment support and food went to the Soviet Union, Iran and Iraq.
• The valour of the Indian soldiers was recognised with the award of over four thousand decorations, which also included award of 18 Victoria and George Cross.

INDIAN CONTINGENT IN PARADE :

Indian Armed Forces contingent participated in the Victory Day Parade at Red Square Moscow on 24 Jun 2020.

• The Regiment has four Battle Honours and two Military Cross amongst other gallantry awards.