Remembering VJ day 80 years on

 VJ Day marks the anniversary of 15 August 1945 when Japan announced its surrender to the Allied forces.  The surrender was met with relief and celebration that after six long years the Second World War was finally over.  

While millions took part in parades and street parties, there was also great sadness – the human cost was enormous and many eagerly awaited the safe return of loved ones.   Over 90,000 British troops were casualties in the war against Japan – 30,000 died and 37,500 were held as prisoners of war.  

For hundreds of thousands of service personnel from Britain and the Commonwealth, it would take many months to be reunited with loved ones, some of whom they hadn’t seen for more than five years.  

Communities across Shropshire came together to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day  and pay tribute to the thousands of service personnel who served in the Far East. Commemorations took  place in Shrewsbury, Telford, Oswestry, Bridgnorth, Madeley, Ludlow and Ellesmere, with a focus on remembering a chapter of history often referred to as the “forgotten war.”