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VE Day 80: Honouring Heroes, Including Our Founder

Posted: Thursday, 8 May 2025 @ 11:00
VE Day 80 Logo - white

VE Day 80: Honouring Heroes, Including Our Founder

Today marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, a momentous day when Allied forces formally accepted Nazi Germany's surrender, ending World War II in Europe on 8th May 1945.

Union Jack bunting - VE Day 80

What is VE Day and Why It Matters

VE Day stands as a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and unity. It’s a time to remember those who gave everything for peace in Europe—and to reflect on how that legacy lives on today.

Photo of Fred Draper during World War 2

Fred Draper: From the Front Lines to Founding A H Spares

For us at A H Spares, VE Day isn’t just history—it’s personal. Our founder, Fred Draper, served in some of the most demanding theatres of WWII. His service took him across Egypt, Libya, Palestine, India, and finally into Burma as a Chindit—an elite force that operated deep behind Japanese lines in harsh jungle conditions.


Fred's experiences have recently been documented in a new book, A Private War, capturing the resilience, grit, and quiet determination of a soldier who later became a cornerstone of the British classic car community.


After the war, Fred channelled that same determination into civilian life. He became Parts Manager at the Donald Healey Motor Company, where he spent 18 years supporting and supplying parts for the legendary Austin Healey cars. In 1970, Fred took voluntary redundancy and purchased the remaining stock of Austin Healey 100/6 and 3000 parts. From that, he established his own company—A H Spares. What started as a small venture quickly grew into a trusted name in the classic car world, built on Fred’s passion, technical know-how, and wartime resilience.

Marking 80 Years Since Victory in Europe

Across the UK, commemorations are being held to mark this important milestone. The official site for the 80th anniversary offers stories, event listings, and ways to pay tribute, whether through a moment of silence, community events, or personal reflection.

Fred Draper being deployed to Syria

Why Remembrance Matters to A H Spares

As we continue to supply parts for classic Austin-Healey and Sprite cars—which date back to the post-war era—we honour the past with every product we make and every customer we serve.


Today, we remember Fred. We remember his generation. And we say thank you.

 
 
 
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