Special to the Patriot-Bridge
USS Constitution is honored to host a Victory in Europe (VE) Day ceremony aboard the ship on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
This commemorative event will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe. The ceremony will include remarks by USS Constitution’s commanding officer, along with honored guests from the German, French, British, and Canadian Consulates General.
An eight-gun salute will follow, symbolizing the eight decades that have passed since the surrender of Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945. The ceremony will conclude with the playing of “Taps” aboard America’s Ship of State.
Public viewing of the event from the pier is welcome. The ship will temporarily close to public boarding from 1:55 p.m. to 2:03 p.m. during the ceremonial salute and “Taps.” Public access will resume immediately following the conclusion.
All guests aged 18 and older must present a valid state- or federally issued photo ID or passport to board USS Constitution.
USS Constitution is open for public visitation Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. As the oldest commissioned warship afloat and America’s Ship of State, USS Constitution serves as a living symbol of the enduring values of courage, sacrifice, and unity.