15 Aug 2025
The 80th anniversary of VJ Day – marking Victory over Japan and the end of the Second World War – was commemorated at St Albans war memorial today.
The ceremony was led by the Mayor, Cllr Teresa Heritage, and saw Town Crier, Stephen Potter, read a proclamation to honour the courage of those who perished.
He said: “Let it be known to all good people of this city and beyond that on this day, the 15th of August in the year of our Lord 2025, we gather in solemn remembrance and grateful commemoration of Victory over Japan – VJ Day – markign the end of the Second World War.
“Eighty years have passed since the guns fell silent. Peace returned to a world long torn by darkness and despair.
“Today, we honour the courage of those who fought in the Far East, the valour of the fallen, the resilience of the survivors, and the sacrifice of all who served in lands far from home.
“We pledge never to forget the cost of that freedom, nor the legacy of those who gave all for the cause of peace.
“Raised your hearts in remembrance! Raise your voices in thanks! Let this day forever stand in history – as a symbol of endurance, or unity and of hope reborn. God bless our veterans and long live peace! God save the King!”
He added a reference to a speech the King made today: “Friendship is a greater weapon than arms.”
The Rev’d Vanessa Jefferson, Precentor at St Albans Cathedral, then led a two-minute silence at noon which is being held throughout the country.
She said: “We remember with thanksgiving and sorry those whose lives, in World Wars and conflicts past and present, have been given and taken away… those whose service achieved Allied victory in the Pacific… those who suffered from the devastation and trauma of war.
“May their memory inspire us to learn from the atrocities of the past and to pursue peace, justice and reconciliation in our own generation…
Veteran John Gauthier read both For the Fallen and the Kohima Epitaph.
In a further show of respect and commemoration, the Union flag is being flown from St Albans Museum + Gallery,
Cllr Heritage said: “It is a great honour to lead the District’s celebrations of this important occasion, VJ Day 80.
“I hope many of our residents will join me at the war memorial as a wreath is laid and the silence observed in memory of all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and way of life.
“We must not overlook the suffering and bravery of those who fought many, many miles away from home against the Japanese in Burma, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong. We will always remember them.”
