Wakefield district marked the 75th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day

Wreaths were laid at Wakefield’s war memorial on Saturday by the leader of Wakefield Council, Coun Denise Jeffery, the district’s Mayor, Coun Charles Keith, and Wakefield MP Imran Khan, in recognition of all those who served in the Far East and lost their lives during the Second World War.

The council flew the Union Flag from Wakefield Town Hall and the building’s clock tower was lit in red during the evening.

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 bitter fighting in the Far East.

Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) marks the day Japan surrendered on the August 15, 1945, which in effect ended the Second World War.

Coun Jeffery said: “This was a significant anniversary and it is important for us to remember those who have made huge sacrifices for their country and those who continue to do so.

“The council was proud to take part in this ceremony to ensure that their contributions are never forgotten.”

Coun Charles Keith, Mayor of Wakefield, said: “We marked the anniversary by paying tribute to all those who fought and lost their lives during the conflict and to recognise the tremendous sacrifice they made for their country.”