Manchester marks Victory over Japan day with a special online commemoration

Manchester marks Victory over Japan day with a special online commemoration

Deputy Leader Cllr Nigel Murphy quote

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

Early this year in May, many people marked the anniversary by celebrating Victory in Europe (VE Day). However, it is not commonly known that many more lives were lost in the  conflict in Japan. 

What many consider to be the end of the Second World War was the surrender of Japan on 15 August 1945, which is nationally recognised as ‘Victory in Japan day’. This day offers a chance to reflect on the loss and sacrifice of all those that served during the Second World War.   

In line with government advice on how we as a community, family and friends stay safe and protect individuals during the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s commemoration will take place online.   However, this should in no way lessen or recognition or celebrations, rather be inspired to do it ‘differently’. 

To assist residents and communities participate in the celebration, there will be a whole host of interactive activities made available online such as an interactive VJ toolkit https://ve-vjday75.gov.uk/toolkit/. As well as the opportunity to submit a couple of sentences or photographs to remember a loved one who fought during either the first or second world war, these will be displayed on the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s digital War of Remembrance

Similarly, Historic England’s digital project ‘VE to VJ Day: 75, Places that Witnessed the War’ has encouraged contributions from people and places that sheltered the Blitz-weary, to well-known sites of military might, with the final collection being unveiled on VJ Day.

Residents will be able to show how they are taking part by using the hashtag #VJDayMCR and #VJDay75. We would love to hear from you, especially if you have any stories about the final few days of the war in Japan, perhaps a relative or a friend was serving overseas at the time. 

Manchester City Council’s Deputy Leader, Nigel Murphy, said: “This year’s commemoration will be particularly poignant given it is the 75th anniversary of what for many was the end of the Second World War.”

“Earlier this year we celebrated the joys of VE Day, whereas with VJ day it is important to remember, reflect and learn from the substantial loss of life in the Second World War”. 

“I would encourage everyone to try and learn something about this perhaps less well covered event in history because it has, and will continue to affect generations for years to come.”

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