VJ Day 75 takes place on Saturday (15 August) and commemorates the end of the Second World War.
In May, the country marked VE Day (Victory in Europe), the end of the war in Europe, but many thousands of Armed Forces personnel were still engaged in bitter fighting in the Far East. VJ Day (Victory in Japan) marks the day Japan surrendered on the 15 August 1945, which in effect ended the Second World War.
Fighting in the Asia-Pacific took place from Hawaii to north east India. Britain and the Commonwealth’s principle fighting force was the Fourteenth Army. It was one of the most diverse in history, with more than 40 languages spoken and all the world’s major religions represented.
The descendants of many of the Commonwealth veterans of that army are today part of multicultural communities around the world, a lasting legacy to the comradeship of those who fought in the Asia-Pacific.
Veterans of the Far East campaign will be at the heart of the commemorations as the nation thanks them for their service and sacrifice.
Get involved #VJDay75
A number of national activities are planned to commemorate VJ Day 75 including a two-minute silence at 11am, a UK-wide flypast by the Red Arrows Display Team and ‘The Nation’s Tribute’ at 8.30pm on BBC One.
Events will pay tribute to the tens of thousands of service personnel from across the UK and the Commonwealth who fought and died in the war against Japan, including all those who were held as prisoners of war.
If you are planning to commemorate the day, share your stories and personal family histories online #VJDay75. And, please, remember to celebrate safely.
Toast to fallen heroes
Mayor of Ealing, Councillor Dr Abdullah Gulaid, said: “On Saturday, 15 August we commemorate Victory in Japan Day – commonly known as VJ Day – marking the end of the Second World War in 1945.
“We will come together as a nation to remember, give thanks and pay tribute to the endurance of those who served around the world and finally secured peace for us. Their stories of heroism and sacrifice still live on.
“Please raise a toast to all our fallen heroes.”
