President Donald Trump on Friday marked the anniversary of the Allied victory in World War II with a proclamation honoring the sacrifices of American service members who died in the conflict.

Traditionally known as VE (Victory in Europe) Day, May 8th marks the anniversary of the Allied acceptance of Nazi Germany's surrender. The war would continue until VJ (Victory over Japan) Day in August of 1945.

"As we celebrate Victory Day for World War II -- we celebrate America's monumental triumph over tyranny and evil in Europe, led by the might of our Armed Forces and those of our Allies," Trump posted in a statement. 

"The fight for liberty came at a staggering cost," he added. "More than 250,000 Americans laid down their lives in the fight against the Nazi regime. Their heroic sacrifice reminds us that the sacred freedoms we cherish are forged in sacrifice and must be fiercely defended both at home and abroad."

In the U.S., Victory Day is not a federal holiday. Other allied nations, however, notably Russia, celebrate Victory Day with large-scale military parades. Russia refers to the conflict as the "Great Patriotic War" and Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine to mark the date.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent at Just the News. Follow him on X.