Public invited to live screening of VJ Day 80 Service of Remembrance at Arboretum
The National Memorial Arboretum, which is hosting a Service of Remembrance marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan) and the end of the Second World War, is encouraging members of the public to book their parking in advance to attend a live screening of the event on Friday 15 August.
As the national champion of Remembrance, the Royal British Legion, in partnership with the UK Government, will lead the nation on VJ Day by hosting the service at the Arboretum, where Second World War veterans who contributed to campaigns in the Far East and the Pacific will be guests of honour.
Access to this event at the base of the Arboretum’s iconic Armed Forces Memorial, will be strictly by invited event ticket only.
Members of the public can participate in the commemorations by attending a live screening at the nearby Naval Review.
Seating in the public viewing area will be available on a first come, first served basis, and the screening will offer British Sign Language (BSL) interpretation and audio description.
The Naval Review will also host live musical performances from a capella Arboretum partners Black Voices from 10.45am.
Members of the public are encouraged to be seated by 11.30am ahead of the service commencing at midday, and proceedings are expected to conclude by 1pm.
Thousands of people are expected to visit the Arboretum on 15 August to participate in the VJ80 commemorations and an accessible park and ride system will be in operation for all cars, motorcycles, and scooters arriving, including Blue Badge holders.
The Arboretum will be open from 10am to 5pm and pre-booking is highly recommended to guarantee entry.
Mark Ellis, National Memorial Arboretum lead said: “On 15 August, the spotlight will be on the National Memorial Arboretum as we lead the nation in marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day and the end of the Second World War.
“With thousands of people eager to visit the Arboretum and join the commemorations, we strongly recommend that people pre-book access to the park and ride service to guarantee entry.
“As part of our commitment to delivering inclusive events, we have ensured that the park and ride system is fully accessible for all visitors, including blue badge holders.”
Veterans attending the Service will include those who served across the Far East and the Pacific, in Burma - now Myanmar – as well as Prisoners of War in the region and veterans stationed in the UK or Commonwealth countries who contributed to the logistical and intelligence war effort.
While for many, VE Day marked the end of fighting in Europe, the end of the War would not have been possible without the combined efforts of all those who contributed to the Far East theatres of war.
VJ Day marks the anniversary on 15 August 1945 when Japan announced its surrender to the Allied forces following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, effectively ending the Second World War after six years of conflict.
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Pictured: The National Memorial Arboretum Hosted RBL VE Day 80 Commemorations on 08 May
