Victory in Europe (VE) Day, 8 May 1945 marked the end of World War II in Europe, a moment of immense relief, reflection, and cautious celebration after years of conflict and sacrifice. Today marks 80 years since that day, a moment of profound national and international significance. 

At Woodhouse, we pause to honour the lives lost and the courage shown by those who served. With our deep equestrian heritage and strong commitment to veterans, VE Day also resonates with us as a reminder of the values we continue to uphold – service, teamwork and resilience. 

As we look back at the role of horses in wartime and the traditions of remembrance that have followed, we also reflect on how that legacy continues through our support for today’s veterans

The Wartime Contribution of Horses: A VE Day Reflection

When we think of World War II, images of tanks and aircraft often come to mind. Yet, behind the scenes, thousands of horses and mules quietly carried out vital work. Even in the largely mechanised European theatre, horses and mules continued to play vital roles, particularly in hard-to-reach areas or as part of ceremonial and support units. Elsewhere, in terrains like North Africa and Italy, they were indispensable for transporting supplies and evacuating the wounded.¹

Even as mechanisation advanced, the connection between soldier and horse endured. One of the last British cavalry charges near Toungoo, Burma, in March 1942² may have taken place far from Europe, but it serves as a reminder that horses were still part of military life across all theatres of the war. Their loyalty and service, wherever they were deployed, deserve recognition as we mark this milestone in European history.

Beyond their practical role, horses also held deep symbolic meaning, representing loyalty, courage and the continuation of British military tradition. For many, they were a source of comfort and morale in a time of uncertainty.

Remembering Through the Equestrian World

The contributions of horses haven’t been forgotten. Across the UK, the equestrian community continues to honour their role, particularly around remembrance events. The Animals in War Memorial in London’s Hyde Park³ stands as a permanent tribute, and each year, people lay wreaths adorned with both red and purple poppies, the latter symbolising the sacrifice of animals in conflict.

It’s also common to see horses wearing poppies on their bridles or rugs around VE Day⁴, a quiet gesture of respect. Riding clubs and individual horse owners take part in commemorative rides, and mounted regiments like the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and the Household Cavalry⁵ still feature prominently in VE Day parades.

These ceremonial displays do more than mark the occasion. They remind us that the values we associate with horses – discipline, quiet strength, loyalty, and composure under pressure are the same values that underpin national service. For a business like Woodhouse, whose work is deeply rooted in the equestrian world, these traditions feel especially meaningful.

The Armed Forces Covenant: A Promise We Stand Behind

Just as we honour the past, we’re also committed to those who serve today. Signing the Armed Forces Covenant was our way of making that commitment visible – a promise to treat those who serve, or have served, with fairness, respect, and opportunity.

At Woodhouse, that means actively welcoming veterans into meaningful roles where their skills and mindset are recognised and valued. We may be a small team, but we see the difference veteran experience brings, not just in how people work, but in how they support others around them.

It’s not a marketing line. It’s a belief that those who’ve already shown what service and teamwork look like have something powerful to offer and that our workplace is stronger for it.

The Value Veterans Bring

While we’re a small team, we’ve seen first-hand the difference veteran experience can make, not just in how people work, but in how they support those around them. Veterans bring a mindset shaped by service: resilience, clarity under pressure, and a team-first approach. These qualities align with the way we work – especially in fast-paced, hands-on environments where trust and collaboration matter.

“The transition from military to civilian life isn’t easy. But at Woodhouse, the culture, the camaraderie, and the standard we set make it a place where that experience can be put to good use. Veterans bring something different – not just the skills, but the mindset: discipline, teamwork, and pride in doing the job right. For me, it’s also about helping others bring out the best of that experience in everything we deliver.” 

Rob Dennison, Woodhouse Operations Manager and veteran

Looking Ahead with Respect and Purpose

As we mark 80 years since VE Day, we pause to reflect. We remember the lives lost and the sacrifices made, not just by soldiers, but also by the horses who, throughout history, have worked alongside them. We also look forward, reaffirming our commitment to today’s veterans, who bring so much to our business and our wider industry.

Whether it’s through the care we put into equestrian infrastructure or the respect we show our teams, the values that shaped the response to 1945: resilience, cooperation, and commitment to rebuilding continue to shape the way we work today. VE Day reminds us not only of the cost of war, but of the enduring importance of peace, cooperation, and community.

To those who served, and to those still serving: thank you. Your contribution will not be forgotten.

Lest we forget.

References
¹ British Army use of horses in WWII – Imperial War Museums
² Captain Arthur Sandeman and the Burma cavalry charge – Legion Magazine
³ Animals in War Memorial – Animals in War Memorial Fund
⁴ Equestrian remembrance traditions – Horse & Hound
⁵ VE Day 80 parade – Forces News