Armed forces

While VE Day (Victory in Europe) marked the end of the war in Europe in May 1945, many thousands of Armed Forces personnel were still engaged in 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 15 August 1945, which ended the Second World War.

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

The descendants of many of the Commonwealth veterans of that army are today part of multicultural communities around the world, a lasting legacy to the success and comradeship of those who fought in the Asia-Pacific. 

VJ Day is an opportunity for the nation to come together to honour and pay tribute to the Second World War generation from across the UK and Commonwealth, through a series of national and local events and activities.

Local Exhibition 

You can learn more about the stories of local people who served in the Far East during WW2 at a special exhibition presented by Thurrock Museum Volunteers. See our poster below. 

Information about other events in Thurrock marking VJ80:

Friday Aug 15th

Thurrock Council will observe 2 minute silence at 12 noon to honour the 80th anniversary of VJ Day

Saturday 16th August, 11.00am (please arrive by 10.45am)

Service of Remembrance VJ Day: The Rose Garden, Wingfield Drive, Orsett RM16 3HE

Sunday 17th August

Salute! 

Thurrock Museum