NATIONAL EAST MEETS WEST DAY
National East Meets West Day on April 25th commemorates the day the Eastern Front of the Allied forces met the Western front on the River Elbe. Also known as Elbe Day, this day marked an important step toward ending World War II.
#EastMeetsWestDay
World War II had been raging for over six years. During the previous year, several events had begun turning the tides of the war against the Axis powers. In April of 1945, the Allies were marching toward peace. However, it would require a coordinated effort from both American troops in the East and Soviet armies from the West.
The commanders directed their units not to make contact with each other. Their orders were to remain on their eastern and western banks of the river while officers from each division formalized occupation of Berlin.
However, when the two armies met on April 25th south of Berlin outside Torgau on the River Elbe, patrols entered the river in a small boat. The first to make contact were American First Lieutenant Albert Kotzebue and Soviet Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Gardiev along with their commands.
Two days later, photographers commemorated the event of the Eastern front meeting the Western front.
HOW TO OBSERVE EAST MEETS WEST DAY
- Learn more about World War II history.
- Visit a World War II history museum.
- Read about the stories from World War II.
- Honor those who served and those who moved to bring the war to a close.
- Use #EastMeetsWestDay or #ElbeDay to share on social media.
EAST MEETS WEST DAY HISTORY
On the 65th anniversary of this historic event, U.S. and Russian presidents issued a joint statement commemorating Elbe Day. In Torgau, Germany, Elbe Day events are held annually.
Elbe FAQ
Q. How long is the River Elbe?
A. The River Elbe is 1094 kilometers (610.8 miles) long and passes through the Czech Republic and Germany on its way to the North Sea.
Q. Is there a monument to the meeting of troops on the River Elbe?
A. Yes. In Torgau, a monument commemorates the day.