North Yorkshire County Council’s chairman has encouraged residents to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Victory in Japan today.
Today commemorates the surrender of Imperial Japan on August 15, 1945, which led to the end of the Second World War.
Nationally, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall will lead a two-minute silence from 11am at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire and the Red Arrows will perform a fly past over Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff and London.
The BBC will also broadcast VJ Day 75: A Nation’s Tribute and screens in locations across the country will show a photo montage showcasing living Second World War veterans.
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It will include the Duke of Edinburgh who was present on board HMS Whelp in Tokyo Bay for the signing of the Japanese surrender.
Cllr Jim Clark has called on residents in North Yorkshire to also commemorate the anniversary.
He said:
“Whatever the reason for perhaps not marking it in the past, for this 75th anniversary I would like each and every one of us to take time to remember the events of 75 years ago in whatever way you feel appropriate.
“Remember all the brave service men and women who made great sacrifices, some the ultimate sacrifice, including those of our great county, so that we enjoy the freedoms we value so much today. Remember also the large number of innocent civilians, including many children, who died because they happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
“Finally, I would like to thank all of you who have gone the extra mile over the last few months, both paid staff and volunteers. It has been North Yorkshire communities at their best and once again I invite you to stand together in remembrance and thanksgiving; against hate and prejudice; and to build stronger communities.
“This will allow us all to face an uncertain future with hope and confidence.”
