National V-J Day commemorates Victory over Japan Day, marking the end of World War II when Japan surrendered to the Allied Forces. This historic moment brought one of humanity’s deadliest conflicts to a close.
Quick Facts
When is it: September 2 in the United States
Tagged as: Victory over Japan Day, Victory in the Pacific Day, V-P Day
What’s the hashtag: #VJDay
When was it founded: 1945
Who founded it: President Harry S. Truman
History of V-J Day
The surrender came after the United States dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Emperor Hirohito announced Japan’s surrender on August 15, 1945, though the formal signing ceremony took place aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945. President Truman declared a two-day holiday, leading to massive celebrations across America.
Timeline
- December 7, 1941: Japan attacks Pearl Harbor
- August 6, 1945: Atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima
- August 9, 1945: Atomic bomb dropped on Nagasaki
- August 14, 1945: Japan accepts surrender terms
- August 15, 1945: Emperor Hirohito announces surrender
- September 2, 1945: Official signing ceremony
Dates 2025-2030
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | September 2 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | September 2 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | September 2 | Thursday |
| 2028 | September 2 | Saturday |
| 2029 | September 2 | Sunday |
| 2030 | September 2 | Monday |
How V-J Day is Observed
The day is marked with memorial services, military parades, and patriotic displays. Many Americans watch WWII documentaries and films, while veterans share their stories. Some communities hold remembrance ceremonies to honor those who served.
Fun Facts About V-J Day
- The famous Times Square kiss photograph was actually captured by two different photographers
- The celebrations lasted for multiple days in many cities
- Paper was thrown from buildings like confetti during the initial celebrations
- The surrender document had two copies: one leather-bound for Allies and one canvas-backed for Japan
Quiz
- When did Japan formally surrender?
- Where was the surrender document signed?
- Who announced the surrender to the American people?
- Which famous photograph became a symbol of V-J Day?
(Answers: 1. September 2, 1945 2. USS Missouri 3. President Truman 4. The Times Square Kiss)
FAQs
Q: Why are there different dates for V-J Day?
A: Different countries observe it on either August 14, August 15, or September 2, depending on time zones and when they received the news.
Q: Is V-J Day a federal holiday?
A: No, it’s not a federal holiday in the United States but is commemorated annually.
Related Days
- V-E Day (Victory in Europe Day)
- Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
- Armed Forces Day
- Memorial Day
- Veterans Day