REMEMBER: Today marks the 75th anniversary of V-E Day, Victory over Europe in World War II.

The 48-page V-E Edition of The Bradford Era on May 8, 1945, had a giant headline proclaiming “Germany Gives Up!”

The war in Europe had ended.

An editorial titled “A Time for Prayer” ran on the front page, cautioning local residents that the war against Japan continued.

“One phase of this global war is finished. An end to official hostilities in Europe has been announced by the Allied leaders.

This is not a time for hilarious celebration. Rather it is a time for each of us to kneel humbly and call upon Divine guidance for strength to complete the task which lies ahead — the defeat of Japan.

Cessation of organized resistance in Europe does not signal, for many American men in that theater of war, the end of conflict, of fighting, of bloodshed. Sporadic rioting during policing operations may occur, but the last recalcitrant Nazi is crushed.

Many have died to preserve our freedom and to build for their comrades and for us at home the foundations of a new freedom, a new world rich in peace and prosperity.

But the job is only partly finished. Before we can again beat our swords into plowshares we must travel the long, tortuous road to Tokyo.

Give thanks this day unto Almighty God that one phase of the conflict has passed. Kneel down and pray for strength and guidance to carry on until the last despot has been crushed and the banners of justice, peace and goodwill may be unfurled over all the world.”

Churches in Bradford held special V-E Day programs, including a band concert held in Public Square.

“The band selection ‘America’ will be followed by the pledge of allegiance to the flag after which Mayor Hugh J. Ryan will speak.

“A minute of silence in honor of the heroic dead will then be observed.”