Celebrating VJ Day
VJ Day is part of our history, but its meaning lives on in the veterans who still need support today.
What is VJ Day?
Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day), observed on 15 August, marks the surrender of Japanese forces and the official end of the Second World War. While peace was declared in Europe on VE Day, 8 May 1945, the war in the Far East was far from over, raging on for several more months.
The War in the Far East
British, Commonwealth, and Allied troops, including large contingents from the United States and Australia, had already endured years of brutal combat before facing some of the most unforgiving conditions of the entire conflict. From the dense jungles of Burma to the islands of the Pacific, they fought a determined enemy in a campaign marked by extreme hardship, tropical disease, and relentless violence.
This front received far less resources than Europe, in part due to the “Germany First” strategy adopted by the UK and USA, which prioritised the defeat of Nazi Germany.
The Forgotten Army
The 14th Army, often referred to as the “Forgotten Army,” played a pivotal role in halting Japanese advances in Southeast Asia. Comprising soldiers from Britain and across the Commonwealth, including India, Africa, the Caribbean, and Gurkhas from Nepal, this force pushed through monsoon-soaked terrain and mountainous jungle to reclaim occupied territories. Their efforts culminated in the liberation of Burma and the eventual surrender of Japanese forces.
Teachings of the Second World War are less focussed on the war in the Asia-Pacific. As a result, public awareness of the bitter fighting in the Far East, and the Commonwealth’s critical role within it, remains limited. This has left generations without fully understanding their communities’ connection to this conflict, or how their lives today are still shaped by its legacy.
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The Final Days of War
In August 1945, the world witnessed two of the most devastating events in human history: the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. These attacks, combined with the Soviet Union’s declaration of war on Japan, led to Japan’s unconditional surrender on 15 August 1945. For many, VJ Day was not a moment of jubilation, but one of solemn relief.
The Human Cost
More than 71,000 British and Commonwealth personnel lost their lives in the Far East. Among them were 12,000 prisoners of war, many of whom died in captivity after being subjected to forced labour, starvation, and inhumane treatment. Their suffering is a stark reminder that the war’s end came at an immense cost.
RBVE’s Commemoration for VJ Day
This VJ Day, RBVE honours those who fought on, while much of the world celebrated peace.
Among them is Percy Bowpitt, now 99 years old and living in RBVE’s Centenary Village [link]. At just sixteen, Percy stood before a Recruiting Sergeant, carrying a forged signature and a determination well beyond his years. What followed took him thousands of miles from home, through the unrelenting jungles of the Far East, and into the ranks of the often-overlooked Forgotten Army.
Now, on the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, he shares his story.
How to get involved this VJ Day
Stand with veterans on VJ Day.
Tommy Tea
Host a Tommy Tea in support of RBVE today. RBVE has worked to support veterans for over 100 years and continues to support veterans today.
Skydive
Experience the thrill of jumping from 10,000 feet by taking part in a charity tandem skydive for RBVE
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RBVE Shop
Everything for sale on the RBVE shop is made or fulfilled by veterans and those with disabilities who are employed by RBVE. Shop now to support VJ Day.