The Lord-Lieutenant, Sheriff Iona McDonald OBE attended a flag raising ceremony at East Ayrshire Council HQ on Friday 15th August to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VJ day. The event was also attended by many members of the local branch of Legion Scotland, the local MP, Elected Members of the Council and representatives of the emergency services

 

VJ Day marks the anniversary of 15 August 1945 when Japan announced its surrender to the Allied forces.?

The surrender was met with relief and celebration that after six long years the Second World War was finally over.?

While millions took part in parades and street parties, there was also great sadness - the human cost was enormous and many eagerly awaited the safe return of loved ones.??

Over 90,000 British troops were casualties in the war against Japan - 30,000 died and 37,500 were held as prisoners of war.?

For hundreds of thousands of service personnel from Britain and the Commonwealth, it would take many months to be reunited with loved ones, some of whom they hadn’t seen for more than five years.?( source RBL)