VJ Day: Nation pauses to remember the 'Forgotten Army'

On this day in 1945 Japan surrendered to allied forces

The Isle of Man joined nations around the world today (15 August) in falling silent to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day.

On this day in 1945, Japan unconditionally surrendered to Allied forces, marking the end of the Second World War.

Yet its anniversary is perhaps lesser known to many than VE Day (Victory in Europe), which saw the end of fighting in Europe in May 1945.

In reality, the relief of Germany's surrender in Europe didn't extend to those who still had loved ones fighting in Asia and the Pacific, and victory over Japan in the subsequent three months came at a heavy price for all sides.

Fighting ultimately only came to an end after the dropping of atomic bombs on two Japanese cities - with the estimated recorded death tolls thought to be about 140,000 of Hiroshima's 350,000 population and at least 74,000 in Nagasaki.

But before getting to that point, the war against Japan saw 90,332 British casualties, of which 29,968 died and 12,433 were held as prisoners of war.

Indeed, by 1945, across Asia and the Pacific, there were 365,000 British and 1.5 million Commonwealth troops deployed, including the largest volunteer army in history - the pre-partition Indian army of 2.5 million soldiers. 

Today, the world paused to remember them.

SURRENDER

On 15 August 1945, the Japanese announced its surrender to the Allied nations, and at 12 noon local time, Emperor Hirohito made a radio broadcast for the first time, informing his citizens of the move.

Two days of national holiday were announced in Britain on 15 and 16 August by Prime Minister Clement Atlee.

"Japan has today surrendered. The last of our enemies is laid low. Taking full advantage of surprise and treachery, the Japanese forces quickly overran the territories of ourselves and our allies in the Far East and at one time it appeared as though they might even invade the mainland of Australia and advance far into India. But the tide turned, first slowly then with an ever-increasing speed and violence as the mighty forces of the United States and of the British Commonwealth and Empire and of their allies and finally of Russia were brought to bear." - Prime Minister Clement Atlee, 15 August 1945

But whilst many commemorate VJ Day in August, some countries (such as the US) mark it on 2 September, as it saw the official signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, onboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.

Here on the Isle of Man, as is the case in the UK, it is marked on 15 August.

Alongside services around the Island, a two-minute silence took place at midday 'paying tribute to all those who served and lost their lives in the Far East and the Pacific'.

This was observed by the likes of Isle of Man Transport, which confirmed that where possible, its staff, bus drivers and operational teams across Isle of Man Railways would be supporting it as a mark of respect.

Meanwhile, the Tower of Refuge, Legislative Buildings and the Ramsey Swing Bridge will be illuminated in tribute this evening.

Additionally, as part of an initiative by the Central Council of Church Bell Ringers, the bells of St George, Douglas will ring at 6.30pm.

The bells will be rung by members of the Douglas Company of Bell Ringers.

Everyone is invited to come and listen.