Find out more about WW2, and both VE and VJ day with the Blitz Kids

What Does VJ Day Mean?

VJ Day stands for Victory over Japan Day – the day World War Two officially ended. While fighting in Europe had ended in May 1945, Japan kept fighting on until August. VJ Day marks the moment the whole world could begin to heal and rebuild.

When Did It Happen?

The announcement of Japan’s surrender came on 15 August 1945. That’s the date people in the UK, Australia, and many other countries celebrate VJ Day. But in the United States, VJ Day is often marked on 2 September, the day the surrender was formally signed.

Why Did Japan Surrender?

After years of fierce fighting in the Pacific, and the dropping of two atomic bombs on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan finally agreed to surrender. The bombs caused enormous destruction and loss of life. This, combined with Soviet forces entering the war against Japan, led to the decision to end the war.

Huge Celebrations Around the World

When the news broke, there were massive celebrations in cities like London, New York, and Sydney. People danced in the streets, waved flags, and hugged strangers – they were so happy the war was over at last! Some famous photos, like a sailor kissing a dental nurse in Times Square, became symbols of peace.

A Day of Joy – and Reflection

Although VJ Day was full of happiness for many, it was also a time to remember those who had been lost. Over 70 million people died during World War Two, including many in Asia and the Pacific. For soldiers and civilians, the end of the war brought relief, grief, and hope.

It Meant Prisoners of War Were Freed

Thousands of Allied soldiers had been held in prisoner of war camps in Japan and across Asia – often in terrible conditions. VJ Day meant these prisoners could finally go home to their families. Many were weak and sick, and their stories helped people understand the suffering caused by war.

Peace Was Signed on a Ship!

The official peace agreement was signed on 2 September 1945 on board the American battleship USS Missouri, in Tokyo Bay. Leaders from Japan and the Allied forces signed the surrender papers, making it all official. That moment is often seen as the true end of the Second World War.

VJ Day Helped Shape the Modern World

After the war, countries worked hard to avoid such destruction ever happening again. The United Nations was created, and efforts to bring about global peace and cooperation began. VJ Day was not just the end of a war – it was the start of building a better, more peaceful future.

Japan Became a Peaceful Nation

After the war, Japan changed in many ways. It became a peaceful democracy, gave up having a big army, and focused on technology, education, and rebuilding. Today, Japan is known as one of the world’s most peaceful countries.

VJ Day Is Still Remembered Today

Every year, VJ Day is marked with ceremonies, parades, and remembrance events, especially for veterans of the Far East campaign

2025 marks the 80^th anniversary and the UK will remember in a ceremony including 400 members of the Armed Forces and include music performances, readings and veteran testimonies, as well as a flypast from the Red Arrows and historic aircraft from The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.