VJ Day 75
15th of August 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of the surrender of Japan to the Allies which finally marked the end of WWII, a truly global conflict. It is marked as Victory over Japan Day. These
years saw terrible suffering in the course of the conflict which had lasted six years. It is right that today we remember those who served and sacrificed so much, thank those veterans who are still
with us (including HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and Captain Sir Tom Moore) and commit ourselves to working for a world of peace and freedom for all.
The Army in the Far East have often been called “the Forgotten Army”. They must not be forgotten. Let us remember the words of Rudyard Kipling, engraved on many headstones which have no name in
war cemeteries: “Known Unto God”.
“We will remember them”. (Laurence Binyon)
Our Prayer
Let us give thanks for the selfless and courageous service and sacrifice of those who brought peace, and for the good example they have given us.
As generations before us fought for peace, that the world might never again know such violence and destruction. May we work for peace and reconciliation in our homes and communities, and promote peace throughout the world.
So we pledge ourselves to serve you and all humankind, in the cause of peace, for the relief of want and suffering, and for the praise of your name. May almighty God, who has given us the will to
undertake these things, bless us with the strength to perform them. Guide us by your Spirit;
give us wisdom; give us courage; give us hope;
and keep us faithful now and always.
Amen.