Amanda Martin MP has commented on the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, which will take place on 15th August. Whilst victory was declared in Europe in May 1945, British and Commonwealth soldiers continued to fight Japanese Forces in Asia and the Pacific until August 1945.
The Government have committed to ensuring that the 80th anniversary is marked across the country, with veterans’ voices at the heart of events.
Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North, said: “Everybody in Portsmouth has a direct connection to those who served in the Second World War, whether that be through family or our local community.
“As time passes, the opportunity to hear from those who experienced wartime first-hand diminishes. It is our responsibility to keep the memory of those who risked so much for us in Portsmouth alive.
“These people were prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice so we could enjoy our way of life today, and this year we pay tribute to them, first through the commemorative events to mark VE Day in May, and in August to mark VJ Day.
“Whilst victory was declared in Europe in May 1945, it is important that we remember the thousands of troops who continued to fight Japanese forces for months after peace came to Europe.
“It has been heart-warming to see so many people from Portsmouth come together to remember those who fought and died for the sake of our future.”
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy MP said: “Those who continued to fight bravely in Asia and the Pacific during the final months of the Second World War must never be forgotten. Their courage, endurance, and sacrifice were instrumental in bringing about the end of the conflict.
“It is so important for us as a nation to come together on this significant anniversary to reflect on their service and to honour the memory of all who served on VJ Day.
“This is a moment to listen to our veterans, to hear their powerful, personal stories first-hand, and to learn from their experiences. By doing so, we ensure that their legacy continues to live on, not just in our history books, but in the hearts and minds of future generations. Their sacrifice must never be forgotten, and our collective remembrance is a vital part of preserving the values they fought to defend.”
Minister for Ceremonials, Stephanie Peacock MP, said: “The 80th anniversary of VJ Day is an important opportunity for communities to come together to pay tribute to all those who served in the Second World War and to reflect on the values that they were fighting for.
“Whilst victory was declared in Europe in May 1945, fighting continued in Asia and the Pacific for months after, and it is important that we do not lose this often-overlooked part of our history.
“The Government has held a programme of events throughout 2025 to mark the 80th anniversaries of VE and VJ Day, and I encourage people across the country to get involved in the commemorative events that are open to the public.
“Without the combined efforts of the Allied Forces from Britain, the Commonwealth, and beyond, the way of life we enjoy today, and the values we hold dear, would not have been possible.
“This Government have been proud to hold a comprehensive set of events to remember the sacrifices of those who risked so much for the sake of our future.”
