East Meets West Day

East Meets West Day is an annual American holiday commemorating the historic meeting of soldiers from the U.S. and Soviet armies during World War II. This event heralded the great victory over the Nazis in the bloody war. It is celebrated on April 25.

History

The story of East Meets West Day begins in 1945, when American and Soviet soldiers were advancing into German territory, approaching the Elbe River. It was there that the armies of the two superpowers met face to face for the first time. Lieutenant Albert Kotzebue represented the U.S. side, while Colonel Alexander Gordeev represented the Soviet side. They solemnly shook hands, and this historic moment, along with others from the meeting, was captured on camera by war correspondents.

As a result of this meeting, a decision was made to end hostilities on the part of the American soldiers. The Soviet army then made a final push to Berlin, bringing an end to the bloody war that had lasted six years and claimed millions of lives, both civilian and military.

Interesting Facts

• Despite the common goal of defeating Nazi Germany, the armies of the two superpowers initially had reservations about meeting due to political and other reasons. However, their eventual cooperation was crucial in ending the war.
• A monument called “Meeting on the Elbe” was erected in Torgau to honor this famous encounter.
• Every year on April 25, orchestras perform the national anthems of the United States and Russia to commemorate the event.

How to Celebrate

Learn more about the historic encounter between East and West on the Elbe River. Visit museums to see military artifacts from the period.

Share the story on social media to help more people learn about this significant event in history.

When is East Meets West Day in 2025?

East Meets West Day is observed on April 25 each year.

Observations