Veterans to gather to mark VJ Day in Wolverhampton
Heroes will be honoured when the city comes together to mark Japan's surrender during the Second World War.
Communities across Wolverhampton will unite to mark the 74th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.
Veterans will gather near the Cenotaph in St Peter's Square as a service of remembrance is held next Thursday.
Mayor of Wolverhampton Councillor Claire Darke said: “Commemorating VJ Day gives us the opportunity to remember the courage and bravery shown in the Far East by many thousands of British servicemen, some of whom were sadly never to return.
“It is now more than seven decades since the end of the Second World War and, as the number of veterans who are still with us sadly diminishes, it is very important that we continue to show our immense gratitude for the sacrifices they made for our freedom.”
August 15 was declared VJ Day after Japanese Army surrendered to Allied forces - an event which effectively heralded the end of the Second World War.
The Burma Star Association’s Wolverhampton Branch, the City of Wolverhampton Central Branch of the Royal British Legion and the Wolverhampton and District United Ex-Service Council will join the annual service from 11.30am.
It will begin with a parade of standards and veterans followed by prayers, the Kohima homily, Royal British Legion exhortation, the Last Post and two minutes’ silence.
The Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands John Crabtree, the Mayor, members of the Burma Star Association and members of the public will be invited to lay wreaths.
Pat Johnson, chair of the Central Branch of the City of Wolverhampton Royal British Legion, said: “I’d like to invite everyone to join us and remember the sacrifices shown by countless Wulfrunians who served in the Far East during the Second World War, including the Chindits – the British India special force which served in the Burma campaign.”
