Today, we commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific Day.
For six brutal, earth-shattering years, war enveloped the world for a second time and was waged for three and a half years on our doorstep, in the Pacific region.
Its impact was felt by all Australians, but none more so than the almost a million who served in the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Merchant Navy, be it overseas or in key roles on our own soil.
But eighty years ago today, Australians breathed a collective sigh of relief.
Not only was the war in the Pacific at an end, but the Second World War was over.
Celebrations remained bittersweet for many, with the global conflict taking a heavy toll.
Approximately 40,000 Australians lost their lives serving in the war. Their graves, and memorials to the missing, span the globe and remain a tribute to their grit, fortitude and sacrifice.
Given the nature of this significant anniversary, a range of commemorative events are being staged across the country.
This morning, a Victory in the Pacific Day commemorative service and wreath laying will be held at the ANZAC Park Cenotaph in Townsville. Run by the Townsville City Council in partnership with the Queensland Government, this event was partially funded under the 2024-25 Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program.
In Canberra, the Australian War Memorial has several events, including a daily tour taking visitors through highlights of the Second World War Galleries, and the Victory in the Pacific! photographic exhibition.
This afternoon, a symposium Interpreting Australia's Second World War: Previewing Anzac Hall is taking place from 2pm to 4pm, which will lead into an extended Last Post Ceremony at 4.30pm.
Attending this sure-to-be emotional and moving national service, honouring all Australians who served overseas or on the home front, will be a dozen Second World War veterans, supported in their journey to our nation’s capital by DVA.
Today, we reflect on the enduring legacy of all who fought in the Second World War, the resilience of those who served and sacrificed, and lament the staggering cost to all who took up arms for peace.
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.
Photos from the Last Post Ceremony will be available this evening on our DVA Flickr page.
For more details on the events at the Australian War Memorial, visit Marking the end of the Second World War | Australian War Memorial
Crowds of civilians and soldiers fill a city street during celebrations for VP day. After the announcement of Japan's capitulation there were scenes of rejoicing throughout Australia.
Image courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.