East Meets West Day is observed on April 25 to commemorate the historical events of 1945, when American and Soviet soldiers met in Torgau, Germany, along the Elbe River. This was one of the initial stages towards the formal occupation of Berlin by the Axis powers. Despite being on the same side during the Second World War, the United States and the Soviet Union avoided direct contact for political reasons. However, their first physical contact was an act of cooperation that contributed to the end of the conflict.
The background of East Meets West Day
East Meets West Day commemorates the day when American and Soviet troops convened on the River Elbe, a historical meeting place for U.S. and Soviet forces. During the Second World War, American forces were ordered to cease military operations on the Elbe, after which Soviet forces occupied Berlin. This day is historically significant because it marked the beginning of the conclusion of the Second World War.
While efforts were made to end the conflict in Europe, it was necessary for allied forces to promote dialogue and foster mutual understanding between American and Soviet troops. When both armies met at the Elbe River near Torgau, Germany, Lieutenant Albert Kotzebue and Colonel Alexander Gordeyev were the first to clasp hands and formally introduce themselves. After the ceremony, photographers were requested to take photographs. The photographs served as a reminder of the valour displayed by American and Soviet personnel during the Second World War. This encounter was ultimately instrumental in bringing an end to the Second World War in Europe.
On the 75th anniversary of East Meets West Day, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin issued a joint statement honouring the valour and combined efforts of American and Soviet personnel who fought fascism in Europe.
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HOW TO CELEBRATE EAST-WEST MEETING DAY
Read about the World War
Visit your local library or conduct an online search for information on the First and Second World Wars. Use the hashtags #EastMeetsWestDay on social media to share your newfound knowledge with family and friends.
Visit a Museum
Plan a trip to a museum devoted to the First and Second World Wars. If you cannot locate a museum in your city, choose one that offers virtual tours so that you can experience a tour without leaving your home.
Watch a documentary about World War II.
If you prefer films to reading books or visiting museums, observe East Meets West Day by viewing a Second World War documentary. There are numerous documentaries available on various streaming sites, but be sure to select one that is historically accurate. One method to accomplish this is by reading online reviews and ratings.
5 WWII facts that will blow your mind
Germany initiated World War II by conquering Poland.
Russia sustained the greatest number of combat casualties.
World War II claimed the lives of over sixty million individuals.
During World War II, the troops played football to keep fit.
During World War II, U.S. military consumed 10 billion bottles of Coke.
EAST MEETS WEST DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 25 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | April 25 | Thursday |
| 2025 | April 25 | Friday |
| 2026 | April 25 | Saturday |
| 2027 | April 25 | Sunday |
