Automotive Sector Unites to Honour VE Day 80 and Support Veterans Across the UK
In a powerful demonstration of commitment to the Armed Forces community, Mission Automotive partners across the UK mobility sector came together this week to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (VE Day 80). Through a series of meaningful, coordinated activities, our partners reaffirmed their support for veterans, serving personnel, and their families — reflecting the enduring values of service, sacrifice, and remembrance.
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) held a flagship VE Day 80 celebration at it’s Gaydon Headquarters formally RAF Gaydon during the war. JLR was proud and privileged to welcome eight WW2 veterans and their family members.
As well as featuring a special VE Day 80 lunch, the event featured static displays of historic vehicles and aircraft, performances by The D-Day Darlings culminating in s a Hurricane Flypast. JLR staff shared their own personal stories of their family members who had served and sacrificed in honour of the freedoms we have today.
Across the week, JLR extended its impact across the UK — providing a door to- door chauffeur service for those from the WWII generation, transporting them from their homes to key VE Day commemorations across the country. 30 of JLR’s Armed Forces Community Network volunteered their time and vehicles, some across multiple events for VE Day 80 activity. This ensured those from the WW2 veteran community and their families could be at the various events including those attended by Royality and dignitaries including those held at Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Royal Albert Hall and the National Memorial Arboretum.
This practical and dignified support is a powerful example of the Armed Forces Covenant in action — going beyond symbolic recognition to deliver real, meaningful impact. They were joined by staff from Mission Motorsport, who also participated in the delivery of this important initiative — ensuring veterans were supported with dignity and care throughout the week's commemorations.
Bentley Motors also marked VE Day 80 with commemorations at its Crewe headquarters, where WWII veteran Bernard Morgan was warmly welcomed in the lead-up to the anniversary. The site was transformed with VE-themed bunting, flags, and decorated lamp posts — creating a space for reflection and national pride. On 8th May, Bentley opened its Heritage Garage for staff to gather for the national two-minute silence and connect with Be Ready, the company's internal Armed Forces network. Colleagues were encouraged to share stories of their family military connections, reinforcing Bentley's enduring commitment to inclusion, service, and remembrance.
Aston Martin further strengthened the sector's collective commitment by formally signing the Armed Forces Covenant on 1st May 2025. The signing ceremony, held at their Gaydon headquarters, reflects Aston Martin's recognition of the value, skills, and lived experiences that veterans and service families bring to the workforce. The move forms part of their wider Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion strategy and sets a strong example for other organisations across the sector. Read more here.
This practical, dignified support is a powerful example of the Armed Forces Covenant in action — going beyond symbolic recognition to deliver real and lasting impact.