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National V-J Day

Celebrated on 08/14/2026

Quick Fact

V-J Day (Victory over Japan Day) marks the end of World War II, but the date is celebrated on different days: August 14 in the United States (when Japan announced surrender) and August 15 in the UK (when the ceasefire took effect). The formal surrender ceremony occurred on September 2, 1945, aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, making that date also recognized as V-J Day in some contexts.

Origins and Establishment of National V-J Day

V-J Day commemorates the Allied victory over Japan and the end of World War II. The day was first celebrated spontaneously on August 14, 1945, when President Harry S. Truman announced Japan's surrender. The formal surrender was signed on September 2, 1945, aboard the USS Missouri. In the United States, President Truman declared September 2 as V-J Day in 1945, but the holiday was never made a permanent federal holiday. However, it remains a significant day of remembrance.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, V-J Day has evolved from massive public celebrations to more solemn observances. In the United States, it is not a federal holiday, but commemorations are held at war memorials and veterans' organizations. The USS Missouri in Pearl Harbor hosts annual ceremonies. In recent years, there has been a push to rename the day to "Victory over Japan Day" or "End of World War II Day" to emphasize the broader significance. In the UK, V-J Day is observed on August 15 with wreath-laying ceremonies and services.

Facts & General Observations

  • The iconic "V-J Day in Times Square" photograph (the sailor kissing a nurse) was taken on August 14, 1945, and remains one of the most famous images of the 20th century.
  • Japan's surrender was announced via radio by Emperor Hirohito in the first time the Japanese public heard his voice.
  • An estimated 2.5 million U.S. service members were scheduled to invade Japan in Operation Downfall, which was canceled after the atomic bombings and surrender.

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