North Lincolnshire to commemorate 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day

On Friday 15 August, the Mayor of North Lincolnshire, Cllr Carol Ross, will lead commemorations in Scunthorpe to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day – the day that signified the end of the Second World War.

A flag-raising ceremony will take place at Church Square House, Scunthorpe, at 10.30am, with veterans, invited guests, and members of the public coming together to honour those who served in the Far East. All are warmly invited to attend and pay their respects.

Later in the day, at 1.30pm, a further ceremony will be held at Jubilee Park to unveil a commemorative plaque and plant a willow tree in memory of the Far East Prisoners of War (FEPOW) – a tribute to their bravery, endurance, and sacrifice.

Cllr Carol Ross, Mayor of North Lincolnshire, said: “VJ Day is an incredibly significant moment in our history – a day that not only marks the end of a devastating war but also honours the tremendous courage of those who fought in the Far East, especially the prisoners of war who endured unthinkable suffering.

“This anniversary gives us a chance to come together as a community to reflect, remember, and give thanks for the peace we enjoy today because of their sacrifices. I warmly invite everyone to join us in paying tribute to these heroes.”

VJ Day, which marks Japan’s surrender on 15 August 1945, brought an end to the global conflict of World War II. This year’s 80th anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of the courage and resilience shown by those who served in the most challenging of conditions.

For further information, please contact the Civic Office on 01724 296346 or email mayoral.services@northlincs.gov.uk.