On the morning of Tuesday 2nd September 2025, Hatfield Town Council held a commemorative event in the small open space at Nimrod Drive, close to the former site of the De Havilland Factory on Hatfield Aerodrome. The event marked the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, which formally concluded on 2nd September 1945 with Japan’s surrender.
The ceremony was attended by the Mayor of Hatfield, Councillor Mick Wise, who joined Town Council officers and members of the Council’s Estates Team to put the finishing touches to the planting of a Japanese Flowering Cherry Tree.
Mayor Wise reflected on the significance of the date, saying:
“As someone whose dad served in the Far East, along with many commonwealth soldiers, sailors and pilots, VE Day did not mark the end of the Second World War. Many of our armed forces were still engaged in fighting against the Japanese and relief only came with their formal surrender on 2nd September 1945. Today, on the 80th anniversary of the end of the war, it’s right we stop and reflect on that momentous occasion.”
The Mayor also reminded those gathered that while history often focuses on military leaders and political decisions, war is ultimately experienced by ordinary people.
“Wars are not fought in Cabinet meeting rooms or underground bunkers. They are fought by everyday people in everyday settings.”
Hatfield itself played a vital role in Britain’s war effort. The De Havilland Aircraft Company, based on the Aerodrome, was central to aircraft production, building and repairing Tiger Moths, Rapides, Airspeed Oxfords and Hurricanes, and later becoming fully engaged with the famous Mosquito.
However, this vital contribution came at a cost. On the morning of 3rd October 1940, the De Havilland factory was attacked by a lone Junkers 88 bomber. Twenty-one workers were killed and another seventy injured.
“They did not wear armed forces uniforms,” said Mayor Wise, “but that does not make their sacrifice any less heroic or poignant.”
The planting of the Cherry Tree not only honoured those lost but also looked forward with hope.
“Unfortunately, wars are still raging across the world, and we can see their devastating impact on communities, homes and families. But 80 years on from the Second World War, we can see how once fierce enemies have now become firm friends and allies. By working together, we can rebuild our communities, homes and families. With that in mind, we plant this Japanese Flowering Cherry Tree to remember those who lost their lives in this place during the Second World War, but also to celebrate the peace their sacrifice helped to secure and the new beginnings it allowed our countries to pursue.”
Looking ahead, Hatfield Town Council has plans to enhance the site further, including the installation of an information board. This will detail the town’s wartime contribution, the importance of the De Havilland site, and the tragic events of 1940, ensuring that future generations understand Hatfield’s role in the conflict and the sacrifices made by its people.
