The 75th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan) is on Saturday 15 August 2020 marking the end of the Second World War.
Fighting in the Asia-Pacific war took place from Hawaii to north-east India. It is estimated that there were 71,000 British and Commonwealth casualties of the war against Japan, including more than 12,000 prisoners of war who died in Japanese captivity. More than 2.5 million Japanese military personnel and civilians are believed to have died over the course of the conflict.
Much of the UK’s modern day multiculturalism can be traced back to this period as Britain and the Commonwealth’s principle fighting force, the Fourteenth Army, was one of the most diverse in history – more than 40 languages were spoken, and all the world’s major religions represented.
Get Involved
There are many ways people can get involved with VJ Day. Visit the government’s website for a selection of some of things you can do and ways you can find out more .
Northampton Borough Council has created a virtual programme to mark VJ Day 75 starting at 11am on Saturday 15 August and these can be found on the Mayor's Facebook page and on the Borough Council’s website.
The Royal British Legion is asking people to share memories and messages.
Join the Legion by taking part in a national moment of Remembrance on Saturday 15 August. A Two Minute Silence will take place at 11am and will be the focal point of the commemorative service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire led by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.
People can follow this commemorative service on a special programme - The Nation Remembers - on BBC One 9:30 to11:30am. The BBC is also showing The Nation’s Tribute on BBC One in the evening 8:30 to 10pm.