A Salute the 80th Anniversary of VE-Day

Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of VE-Day!
Thursday, June 12, 2025 at 7:00pm

Location: Keith-Holmes VFW Post 402  412 Mulberry St. Coraopolis, PA 15108

Join us for a special evening of remembrance and reflection as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Hosted at the Keith-Holmes VFW Post 402 in Coraopolis, this event brings history to life through powerful storytelling, personal connections, and engaging historical insight.

Our featured presentation, “Say Hello to Your Cousin”: An American Soldier in Britain, revisits the experience of a Western Pennsylvanian member of the 29th Infantry Division as he trained in Britain during the war. This division was among the first to arrive in the UK, spending nearly two years in the southwest of England. Through a compelling narrative supported by photographs, artifacts, and letters, speakers Dana C. Del Bianco and James J. “Jim” Stratton will offer a fascinating look at the “friendly invasion” through the eyes of American troops.

Presenters:

• Dana C. Del Bianco holds a degree in History from Carnegie Mellon University and has conducted original research on the Eastern Front. She has developed numerous World War II-themed presentations.

• James J. “Jim” Stratton has been passionate about WWII history since childhood and brings his deep knowledge and enthusiasm to every presentation.

We’re also honored to welcome Peter Petracco, a Britsburgh member whose father served as an American GI during WWII. Peter will share a brief reflection on his recent visit to Pilsen, Czechia, where he was invited to participate in their Liberation Day celebration—an experience that bridges personal history with global remembrance.

Our host for the evening, John (J.R.) Hall, will share his own stories and passion for World War II history from a unique perspective. J.R. received his B.A. in Speech Communications from the University of Pittsburgh and an M.F.A. in Playwriting from Carnegie Mellon University. He teaches Communications, Theatre, and Film at both the Community College of Allegheny County and the University of Pittsburgh. A writer, educator, and theater artist, J.R.’s work often highlights stories of resilience, including his recent musical commission Normal-C, about three teens navigating life with learning disabilities.

Tickets are $10 for members, $20 for non-members and FREE for Veterans. REGISTER HERE

THE BRITSBURGH TEAM