Discover the history and significance of VJ Day in the UK. Learn how the nation commemorates Victory over Japan Day and honours those who served in the Far East during WWII.
What Is VJ Day?
VJ Day, or Victory over Japan Day, marks the end of the Second World War. Celebrated in the UK on 15 August, VJ Day commemorates the moment Japan surrendered in 1945, bringing the global conflict to a final close after six years of devastation.
While VE Day in May 1945 marked victory in Europe, fighting in the Far East—in Burma, Malaya, Singapore, and the Pacific—continued until Japan’s surrender following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
VJ Day is a solemn reminder of the sacrifice, endurance, and resilience shown by British and Allied forces who served in Asia during WWII, often in harrowing and overlooked conditions.
The Historical Significance of VJ Day
✍️ The Final Chapter of WWII
On 15 August 1945, Japan announced its unconditional surrender. Days later, on 2 September, the formal surrender document was signed aboard the USS Missouri. For Britain, VJ Day represented the true end of World War II.
The campaign in the Far East involved some of the most brutal fighting conditions, including extreme heat, disease, and long jungle campaigns. British troops, including many from India, Burma, and other Commonwealth nations, fought bravely in this “Forgotten War.”
👥 Prisoners of War and Civilians
Tens of thousands of British servicemen were captured during the fall of Singapore and other Far Eastern battles. Many endured horrific conditions in Japanese prisoner of war camps, including forced labour on the notorious Burma-Thailand Railway.
VJ Day also honours the suffering of civilians and POWs, recognising the lasting impact of the war in the Asia-Pacific theatre.
How the UK Commemorates VJ Day
🎖️ National Ceremonies
Every year, VJ Day commemorations are held across the UK to honour veterans of the Far East campaign. In milestone years (such as the 75th anniversary in 2020), the UK holds national services involving:
-
Veteran tributes and interviews
-
Two-minute silences
-
Wreath-laying ceremonies
-
Royal and military participation
Key sites such as the National Memorial Arboretum, Whitehall Cenotaph, and local war memorials host remembrance events.
🕊️ Local and Personal Remembrance
Many communities hold their own tributes, with schools, local councils, and museums taking part in remembrance activities. Veterans’ stories, historical exhibitions, and educational talks are used to pass on the history to new generations.
🏵️ The Far East Star and Veteran Recognition
Surviving veterans of the Far East campaign were awarded the Pacific Star, Burma Star, and other honours. VJ Day also raises awareness of the long battle for recognition many Far East veterans faced after the war.
Why VJ Day Matters Today
Though sometimes overshadowed by VE Day, VJ Day plays a crucial role in:
-
Completing the narrative of WWII
-
Highlighting the global scale of the conflict
-
Recognising Commonwealth and international contributions
-
Educating future generations about lesser-known theatres of war
As veterans age and direct memories fade, commemorating VJ Day helps ensure that the stories of courage, survival, and peace are never forgotten.
How You Can Take Part
✅ Attend a local or national ceremony
Check local council listings or veterans’ organisations for planned events near you.
✅ Learn and Share
Explore books, documentaries, or online archives to learn more about the Far East campaign. Share stories from your family or community.
✅ Visit Memorials
Pay tribute at sites like:
-
The Far East Prisoners of War Memorial in Staffordshire
-
The Burma Star Memorial in London
-
The Imperial War Museum (London and Manchester) with VJ Day exhibitions
✅ Host Educational Talks or School Projects
Involve schools, historical societies, and youth groups in VJ Day learning activities. Talks by veterans or historians can bring these stories to life.
Final Thoughts
VJ Day UK marks not just a military victory, but the end of a global war and the beginning of peace. It reminds us of the price paid by those who fought in the shadows of jungles, in the heat of prisoner camps, and in battles often under-recognised.
As we honour those who served in the Far East, we ensure their stories are heard, their service is valued, and their sacrifices are remembered—not just on 15 August, but always.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victory_over_Japan_Day
https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-10238/