VJ DAY - HEROLANDING - ASSET - 001 (1)

Uncover the untold stories

15 August 2020 was the 75th anniversary of VJ Day, marking both the surrender of Japan and the end of the Second World War.

Join us as we remember and recognise all those who served and sacrificed in the Far East and ultimately brought an end to the Second World War.

Whilst VE Day marked the end of the war in Europe in May 1945, many thousands of Armed Forces personnel were still involved in bitter fighting in the Far East.

Victory over Japan would come at a heavy price, and Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) marks the day Japan surrendered on the 15 August 1945, which in effect ended the Second World War.

VJ DAY - MAP - ASSET - 002 (2)

Help us remember the forgotten history of those who served in the Far East

Browse stories and messages of thanks left on our interactive map as part of our VJ Day 75 campaign.
Explore the map

Fighting in the Asia-Pacific took place from Hawaii to North East India.

Britain and the Commonwealth’s principal fighting force, the Fourteenth Army, was one of the most diverse in history - over 40 languages were 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 up and down the country, a lasting legacy to the success and comradeship of those who fought in the Asia-Pacific.

This year we remembered the contribution of all Commonwealth and Allied Forces, without whom victory and the freedoms and way of life we enjoy today would not have been possible.

Find out more about VJ Day

Back to top