Sunderland pays its respects on 75th anniversary of VJ Day

Sadly, coronavirus restrictions meant the public was unable to attend the August 15 event..

But city representatives and military veterans were present and socially distanced, making sure the occasion was no less poignant.

The Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor David Snowdon, joined former servicemen in the ceremony at Sunderland war memorial.

He thanked everyone who served in the Far East, specifically the 125 Anti-Tank Regiment, formed in Sunderland in 1939.

His speech was followed by a reading of The Far Eastern Prayer and a two-minute silence. A bugler played The Last Post.

Another wreath-laying ceremony was held at the North East Land, Sea and Air Museum, commemorating 80 years since the Battle of Britain.

Cllr Snowdon said: “As Mayor of Sunderland I am honoured and proud to be attending this commemorative event, in what are unusual times for us all.

“VJ Day gives us the opportunity to remember the tremendous sacrifice of all those who served in the Far East, as well as those left behind.

“It is a great shame that we are unable to invite the people of Sunderland to this ceremony due to social distancing measures. However, I encourage everyone to celebrate VJ Day in their own homes and remember those who fought for our country.”

Cllr Michael Mordey, deputy leader of the council and Armed Forces Champion, said: “Despite the pandemic, we wanted to make sure that we commemorated VJ Day as best as we could. It is so important to remember those from our city, such as the 125 Anti-Tank Regiment, and the 14th Army Unit.

“We also would like to thank all the veterans that were able to join our ceremony at the Cenotaph. We aim to continue showing our respect and pride for all those who have served and will ensure that their service and sacrifices will always be remembered.”

Victory over Japan Day marks the Japanese surrender of August 15, 1945, effectively ending the Second World War.

Eighty men from Sunderland died during the Far East conflict.

Click here to see nine pictures of remarkable scenes in Sunderland from VJ Day as city remembers 75 years on

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