VE Day: Honouring Service Sacrifice and Community

Remembering VE Day and Its Lasting Significance

VE Day marks the end of the Second World War in Europe on 8th May 1945. It is a moment of national significance, recognising the courage, sacrifice and resilience of those who served, and the communities who lived through the conflict.

The impact of that generation stretches far beyond the moment of victory. Millions contributed to rebuilding societies, restoring infrastructure and creating the conditions for lasting stability. In the UK alone, more than 5 million people served in the armed forces during the war, alongside many more in essential civilian roles.

Supporting the Armed Forces Community Today

As VE Day is marked each year, it remains a moment to pause and reflect on service across generations. It also recognises support for the armed forces community is a key part of this approach. Across the UK, there are over 2 million veterans, alongside approximately 150,000 serving personnel and 35,000 reservists. Many bring valuable skills into civilian roles, including leadership, adaptability, and operational discipline.

OCS supports this transition through its work with the Armed Forces Network, building a community that recognises and supports colleagues with military backgrounds, reservists, and military families. This includes practical support for reservists coordinating operational duties with work and establishing pathways for veterans to build long-term careers. Last year, OCS UK&I offered employment to 229 veterans, current-serving military personnel, and reservists.

Extending Support Beyond the Workplace

This commitment also reaches beyond the workplace. OCS supports Scotty’s Little Soldiers, a charity that works with over 600 children and young people who have experienced the loss of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces. This support helps provide stability, opportunity, and a feeling of community for families affected by service.

Recognising the Contribution of Veterans at OCS

The value of this work is reflected in the people across the organisation.

Colleagues like Richard Catto, an OCS Fire Risk Assessor, served for 24 years in the British Army, finishing his career as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer. As Regimental Provost Sergeant, he worked closely with senior leadership to maintain standards, support operations, and develop those under his command.

His service included front-line infantry roles, where consistency, discipline, and sound judgement were essential. He received a General’s Commendation from the United Nations in 2015 for his contribution during the Cyprus tour, alongside operational medals recognising service in Afghanistan and Iraq, and long service across more than two decades.

Today, those same capabilities support his role at OCS. His experience strengthens team performance, supports safe and reliable operations, and contributes to consistent customer outcomes.

The Ongoing Meaning of Service

This reflects a broader pattern seen across the business. Colleagues with military experience bring practical skills that support resilience, decision-making, and service delivery in challenging environments.

As VE Day is marked each year, it provides an opportunity to reflect on what service means in practice. It highlights the importance of working together, supporting communities, and accepting responsibility for long-term outcomes. These are principles that continue to guide how OCS operates today.