As Europe celebrated the surrender of German forces on VE Day, thousands of British, Commonwealth and Allied Armed Forces personnel were still involved in bitter fighting in the Far East.
Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) on 15 August marks the surrender of Japan forces, which in effect ended the Second World War.
Services on 15 August 2025
As we mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, the Royal British Legion will be hosting a National Commemorative Event at the National Memorial Arboretum, which will also be broadcast live on BBC One and iPlayer from 11:30am to 1pm.
Closer to home, St Mary’s Church in Hayes will be hosting a special service at 10.30am and everyone is welcome to attend. They Royal British Legion will then be hosting a Beacon lighting service at the Legion in Hayes, starting at 8.15pm.
