Defence Sandwell

80th anniversary of VJ Day 

IWM (D 25639) Crowds of people wait for news at the junction of Whitehall with Downing Street. The crowd consists of service personnel and civilians alike, all waiting for confirmation from the Prime Minister that the war in Japan is over. – image from MoD website

Sandwell will mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day) this Friday. 

A commemoration event will pay tribute to those who served in the Second World War and recognise the end of global conflict in 1945.

The event will start at 1045 at the War Memorial, outside Sandwell Council House in Oldbury Civic Square, and will include a 30-minute service led and organised by the Royal British Legion.

Two-minute silence

A national two-minute silence will be held at midday and can be observed wherever you may be. 

Mayor of Sandwell, councillor Steve Melia, said: “While many celebrated VE Day (Victory in Europe Day), fewer people are aware of the hardships faced in Asia and the Pacific. 

“This 80th anniversary of VJ Day is a moment to remember, reflect and recognise those who served far from home.”

Victory over Japan

Fighting in the Asia-Pacific took place from Hawaii to Northeast India. Britain and the Commonwealth’s principal fighting force, the Fourteenth Army, was one of the most diverse in history, with more than 40 languages spoken and all the world’s major religions represented.

Victory over Japan Day followed the dropping of the first atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. 

You can find out more about VJ day here VJ Day – VE Day and VJ Day 80

Bhanu Dhir

Columnist
Bhanu is a former charity CEO and has more than 40 years of experience transforming businesses. He is an ambassador for Acorns Children's Hospice.

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