Read the “Background” and watch the videos under “Resources” below the questions.

1. The first paragraph of a news article should answer the questions who, what, where and when. List the who, what, where and when of this news item. (NOTE: The remainder of a news article provides details on the why and/or how.)

2. On what date did the leaders of Nazi Germany sign surrender documents Berlin?

3. a) What is the day of celebration called?
b) What is the end of war with Japan called?

4. How is the mood of the officers described (when German and Allied military officials gathered in Berlin to sign surrender documents)?

5. How many people died in WWII?

6. The editors of the Texarkana Gazette wrote in an op-ed this week:

“The announcement of VE Day — for Victory in Europe — was cause for celebration. Here at home millions poured into the streets, singing and crying, raising glasses and hugging strangers. It was the same in many nations around the world. …

In some European countries VE Day is still celebrated, still observed. But not here in the U.S. Usually the day passes almost completely forgotten, save for a diminishing number of WWII veterans and their families.

That's too bad. The defeat of the Nazi war machine was one the greatest accomplishments of the Greatest Generation. It should always be remembered. And we should always be grateful.”

What is your reaction to this observation/assertion? Explain your answer.