Communities Unite to Commemorate 80th Anniversary of VJ Day

On August 15, 2025, communities across the UK will commemorate the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, marking Japan’s surrender and the official end of World War II. This day, also known as Victory over Japan Day, is a significant part of history that has often received less attention than VE Day, which celebrated the Allied victory in Europe earlier that year.

The conflict in the Asia-Pacific continued for months after the German forces surrendered on May 8, 1945. It culminated in the devastating bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on August 6 and 9, respectively, resulting in the deaths of over 200,000 people due to the immediate impact and subsequent radiation sickness. Japan announced its surrender just six days later, on August 15, effectively bringing World War II to a close.

Local Commemorations and National Recognition

In Liverpool, a Service of Remembrance will take place at the Far East Prisoners of War (FEPOW) Repatriation Memorial on the Pier Head at 10:30 am, led by The Revd Canon Bill Addy from Liverpool Parish Church. Civic buildings, including Liverpool Town Hall, St George’s Hall, and the Cunard Building, will be illuminated in the colours of the Union Jack on the evening of August 15.

Additionally, the Cunard cruise ship Queen Anne will make a special day call at Liverpool Cruise Port as part of its voyage through Iceland and the British Isles. The ship will provide a backdrop to various commemorative events along the waterfront throughout the day. Cunard’s fleet played a crucial role during the war, with ships like Queen Mary transporting thousands of troops home after the conflict.

Royal Involvement and National Service

In recognition of this significant anniversary, King Charles will deliver a pre-recorded address to the nation on VJ Day. The message will precede a remembrance service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, where the King and Queen, along with World War II veterans, will pay their respects. The event, organized by the Royal British Legion in collaboration with the government, will see attendees lay floral tributes in honour of those who served in the Asia-Pacific theatre.

The service will also include participation from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and will be broadcast live by the BBC, paying tribute to veterans, including recipients of the Burma Star and those who participated in key battles such as Kohima and Imphal.

As part of the commemoration, the ceremony will conclude with a two-minute national silence, followed by an aerial display from the Red Arrows. This collective remembrance aims to honour the sacrifices made and ensure that the stories from this chapter of history are not forgotten.