Today the 15th August 2020 is the 75th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day), marking both the surrender of Japan and the end of the Second World War. The name, V-J Day, had been selected by the Allies after they named V-E Day for the victory in Europe.
We remember and recognise all those who served and sacrificed in the Far East and ultimately brought an end to the Second World War.
Known to many as the “Forgotten Army”, as their efforts were largely overlooked by the contemporary press. The “Forgotten Fourteen” was one of the most diverse forces in history, comprising around a million people from across the commonwealth, without whom we wouldn’t have the freedoms and diverse Britain that we have today.
“We honour their courage and cherish their memory.”
A memorial to the soldiers is in Victoria Embankment Gardens in Westminster London and is seen as a fitting tribute to all who served in the Far East”.
God our Father, in the dying and rising of your Son Jesus Christ, you have brought life and salvation out of cruelty and death. We mark Victory in Japan in gratitude for the courage of the Allied forces who suffered for freedom in the Far East campaign and in sorrow for all that hinders the coming of your kingdom of peace. Give us wisdom to learn from the bitter memories of war, and hearts that long for the unity of all nations. We ask all this in the name of Jesus, in whom there is no east or west, no north or south, but one fellowship of love across the whole earth. Amen