The 80th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan) took place on Friday 15 August 2025, commemorating the end of the Second World War.
While VE Day (Victory in Europe) marked the end of the war in Europe in May 1945, many thousands of Armed Forces personnel were still engaged in fighting in the Far East. Victory over Japan would come at a heavy price, and Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) marks the day Japan surrendered on 15 August 1945, which ended the Second World War.
On Friday 15 August 2025 at 9.30am, Vic Goodey whose own father served in the Far East, raised the special Shalford VJ Day flag decorated by our craft group member, Caroline Ottley. A two minute silence was observed and this was followed by a tribute and prayers from Rev Janet Nicholls, Deputy Lieutenant of Essex.
Later in the day Bendlowes charity hosted a special VJ afternoon tea during which some villagers paid tribute to loved ones by recalling their stories. The event was attended by around 50 people.