VJ day – a chance to learn more about VJ day whilst marking its 75th anniversary

Whilst VE Day marked the end of the war in Europe in May 1945, many thousands of Armed Forces personnel however still continued in bitter fighting in the Far East. They are referred to as the ‘forgotten army’.

Saturday, 15 August 2020, is the 75th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan), marking both the surrender of Japan and the end of the Second World War. On the day there will be a two minute's silence at 11am and televised coverage in the evening.  ​

Britain and the Commonwealth's principle fighting force, the Fourteenth Army, was one of the most diverse in history - over 40 languages were spoken, and all the world's major religions represented.

Citizen worked with the Royal British Legion and the National Memorial Arboretum to celebrate VE day. Now Housing 21, AnchorHanover, Orbit, Citizen and others have joined forces with them to help disseminate activity packs and a quiz which they have developed. It is hoped that more of the housing sector will join in to have some fun as well as raise awareness of VJ day and the diversity which it represented.

As housing associations, we have a unique opportunity to help people in our communities mark important occasions like this and engage in history. Given our unique connections to the Royal British Legion - you may not be aware that Housing 21 used to be called Royal British Legion Housing Association - we’re extremely proud to be involved and fly the flag.

The activity packs which can be printed and shared can be found here (opens new window) and lots of ways to get involved at https://ve-vjday75.gov.uk/get-involved/ (opens new window)

It would be great to have your feedback too using the hashtag  #Vjday75 (opens new window)

If you would like to find out more about how the Housing LIN can support you plan strategically to meet the longer term accommodation needs of veterans or would like to share their housing experiences, please email us at: info@housinglin.org.uk