VJ Day 2015

People seeking ex military jobs might want to make sure they’re in London on 15th August where a series of events is being put on to commemorate the 70th anniversary of VJ Day (also known as Victory over Japan Day).

At 14:00, a flypast and Drumhead Service will take place on Horse Guards Parade, attended by senior military and political representatives from both the UK and the Allies, as well as former prisoners of war, veterans from the campaign in the Far East and civilian internees and members of their families.

A VJ parade will then take place down Whitehall led by current members of the Armed Forces, veterans and their close relatives, as well as a 70th anniversary reception hosted by The Royal British Legion.

Other events are also taking place around the UK, including a commemoration service at 11:00 at St-Martins-in-the-Fields Church, a service in the Millennium Chapel at the National Memorial Arboretum, a thanksgiving service at Lichfield Cathedral and a ceremony at the Manningtree War Memorial at 11:00. On the 16th, a service of remembrance will be held in Portslade at the Easthill Park War Memorial.

Although the war in Europe ended in May 1945, fighting was still ongoing in the Far East. Japan eventually surrendered on 14th August 1945 after the atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The campaign in the region was the longest of the entire war, with continuous fighting happening for three years. Members of the British Forces that were there had no leave and were there for the duration of the war.

The Queen is now set to lead commemorations for the anniversary, joining veterans for the service at St Martin-in-the-Fields.