80th Anniversary of VJ Day

15 August 2025

Warwickshire marks 80th Anniversary of VJ Day with services and commemorations across the county

Warwickshire joined towns and cities across the country this August to commemorate the  80th anniversary of VJ Day - Victory in Japan, the day which marked the end of the Second World War.

A number of moving services and events took place across the county to honour the courage, sacrifice, and service of all those who fought in the Far East and to remember those who never returned.

On  Sunday 10 August, a special  VJ Service of Commemoration was held at St Margaret’s Church, Whitnash. Clare Hopkinson, Deputy Lord-Lieutenant represented the Lieutenancy at this beautifully led service, conducted by Revd Rolene Cort, with a motivating sermon from Revd Ben Cook. The service brought together parishioners, members of the armed forces, and civic leaders including mayors and council chairmen from across Warwickshire.

Wreaths were laid in tribute, hymns and modern songs were sung, and the congregation joined together in the National Anthem. The morning concluded with tea, photographs, and shared memories.

Other commemorations took place on Friday 15 August:

Rugby, Hillmorton  - A service attended by Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Eric Wood.

Leamington Spa  - A short service and wreath laying at the War Memorial attended by Deputy Lord-Lieutenant Martin Jelley at 6.30pm.

Stratford-upon-Avon - A poignant evening of thanksgiving and remembrance in the Garden of Remembrance, attended by Deputy Lord-Lieutenant  Jill Samuda. Led by the Revd Dr. Paul Edmondson, the service featured readings from the Bible and Japanese poetry, the Exhortation, the Last Post, a two-minute silence, and the Kohima Epitaph. Wreaths were laid alongside 1,000 folded Japanese paper cranes, offered as a prayer for peace, before the lighting of the commemorative beacon illuminated the night sky.

Speaking after the commemorations,  Tim Cox, Lord-Lieutenant of Warwickshire, said:

“The 80th anniversary of VJ Day is a time for solemn reflection, heartfelt gratitude, and a renewed commitment to peace. The bravery and endurance of those who served in the Far East, and the sacrifices of those who never returned, must never be forgotten. I am moved by the way communities across Warwickshire have come together to honour their memory and to pass their stories on to future generations.”

The events formed part of the national commemorations, ensuring that Warwickshire’s tribute to those who served in the Far East stands alongside the many across the country.