AP Was There: Nazis surrender, ending World War II in Europe

REIMS, France (AP) — Nazi commanders signed their surrender to Allied forces in a French schoolhouse 75 years ago this week, ending World War II in Europe and the Holocaust on May 7, 1945. Associated Press reporters and photographers covered the war extensively, losing five journalists in the fighting. AP was in the room for the surrender, and was first to announce the momentous news to the public in Allied countries, defying authorities who wanted to delay the announcement for one more day. Veterans of the continent’s deadliest conflict are finding ways to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day despite virus containment measures.