Substitute for House Resolution No. 78.

            A resolution to commemorate the 70th anniversary of V-E Day.

            Whereas, On May 7, 1945, at General Dwight Eisenhower's headquarters in Reims, France, a representative of the German High command signed the document of surrender, unconditionally surrendering all air, land, and sea forces to the Allies on May 8, ending the war in Europe; and

            Whereas, Western Europe and the United States have traditionally celebrated May 8 as the day of the Allied `Victory in Europe' over Germany, or `V-E Day'; and

            Whereas, May 8, 2015, marks the 70th anniversary of V-E Day; and

            Whereas, This day marked the end of six years of misery, suffering, courage, and endurance across the world; and

            Whereas, More than 600,000 members of the United States Armed Forces from Michigan contributed to the war effort in Europe and provided the essential strength and made innumerable sacrifices to end the war in Europe; and

            Whereas, Nearly 11,000 members of the United States Armed Forces from Michigan gave their lives and 30,000 were wounded in the European theater during World War II; and

            Whereas, Michigan was known as the Arsenal of Democracy thanks to its magnificent war materials effort; and

            Whereas, Michigan came in second only to New York in total war-time production; and

            Whereas, The courage and sacrifice of our Michigan men and women in the United States Armed Forces served with distinction to save the world from tyranny and aggression should always be remembered; now, therefore, be it

           Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body commemorate the 70th anniversary of V-E Day. We recognize the end of World War II in Europe, join with a grateful nation in expressing respect and appreciation to the men and women who served in the European theater during World War II, and remember and pay tribute to those Michigan men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their life for their country.