Victory in Europe Day, holds global significance as it marks the official end of World War II in Europe on May 8, 1945. This day symbolizes the triumph of Allied forces over Nazi Germany and the collapse of fascist regimes that had plunged the world into years of devastating conflict. The victory represented not only military success but also the preservation of democratic values and human rights in the face of tyranny and genocide. Across the world, VE Day is remembered as a turning point that paved the way for peace, postwar reconstruction, and the establishment of institutions like the United Nations, aimed at preventing future global conflicts. It remains a powerful reminder of the cost of war and the enduring value of international cooperation.
The Pauline of 1945 reported “as we look back at the year 1945, we may say, with justifiable pride, that the College has successfully weathered its darkest hour” (p.4). During the preceding three years many of the College rooms and facilities were occupied by American forces on duty in Sydney under the control of the Royal Australian Air Force who also occupied rooms. This meant many residents were crammed into the Blacket East/Radford Wing, the Warden’s Lodge and the maids’ quarters (above the kitchen) (Alan Atkinson Hearts and Minds 2017, pp. 277-283). There were trenches and a dug-out prepared for any potential air raid.
288 Paulines joined up and lists in The Paulines of the period include those killed, missing, POWs, wounded, decorated, on active service and obituaries. Serving Paulines ranged in rank from Private to Rear Admiral by the end of World War II. 25 were killed or missing and are commemorated on the memorial wall in the Chapel. By the end of the war 16 were decorated and 7 mentioned in dispatches. Lists of those serving at that time were compiled by then Flight Lieutenant E G Whitlam (in College 1935-42), later Prime Minster of Australia. (Ibid.)
We will remember them. Lest we forget.
Pictures below from WWII: (left) Captain E M Robson in North Africa (later Lieutenant Colonel and awarded DSO); (centre) Flight Lieutenant E G Whitlam; (right) Rear Admiral A B Doyle.
