By Mike Kapur Lord Lieutenant of Leicestershire
This August, we marked the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, a poignant milestone in our history. This significant occasion offered a moment to pause and reflect on the closing chapter of the Second World War.
VJ Day, observed on Friday 15th August, commemorated the day the Allies declared victory over Japan in the Second World War, bringing an end to the conflict in the Far East. It is a time to honour the memory of those who served in some of the most demanding and unforgiving conditions, and to recognise the extraordinary courage, endurance, and sacrifice of all who contributed to the Allied victory.
Picture credit: Leicestershire County Council
Communities across Leicestershire came together to mark this significant occasion with heartfelt reverence. I had the privilege of attending the VJ Day Service held on Thursday 14th August at Leicester Cathedral. It was deeply moving to witness a full congregation united in gratitude, paying tribute to those who served in the Far East with courage and honour.
Among those who played a pivotal role in the Far East campaign were the South Asian soldiers whose vital contribution remains one of the most significant yet often under-recognised aspects of the war. Over 2.5 million men from South Asia volunteered to serve during the Second World War, making it the largest volunteer force in history. Their bravery was evident across Burma, Malaya, and beyond, where they fought alongside British and Allied forces to bring an end to the war.
Leicester and Leicestershire share a deep connection with the South Asian community. Many families in our county
trace their heritage to those who served in the war, and their stories are woven into the fabric of our local history. This is a living testament to those historical ties, and VJ Day offered an opportunity to honour that shared legacy.
As we move from VJ Day into the season of Remembrance, we carry forward the spirit of reflection and unity. Remembrance is not only about recalling the past, but also about recognising the values of service, sacrifice, and peace that continue to shape our society. It is a time when communities across Leicestershire come together to pay tribute to all who have served, regardless of background, nationality, or faith.
This year, as we gather at cenotaphs and memorials, let us ensure that the contributions of the Commonwealth forces are given their rightful place in our collective memory. Their courage helped secure the freedoms we enjoy today, and their legacy lives on in the diverse and inclusive communities that define modern Britain.
I encourage everyone to take a moment during Remembrance to learn more about these stories, to speak with veterans and descendants, and to reflect on the bonds that unite us. In remembering together, we honour not only the past, but also the hope for a more peaceful future.
