Share your VJ Day stories with the city

This August marks the 80th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan Day), which brought World War II to an end on 15 August 1945. 

The Mayor of Brighton & Hove is seeking personal stories, memories, and photographs from residents to help commemorate this historic milestone.  

We're looking for:  

• personal accounts from veterans who served in the Pacific theatre 
• family stories and memories passed down through generations 
• photographs, letters, or memorabilia from VJ Day celebrations 
• stories of how local families marked the end of the war 
• memories of street parties, celebrations, or quiet moments of reflection  

How your stories will be used

Your contributions will help create a community exhibition and may be featured in our official VJ Day commemorative events, social media campaigns, and local press coverage (with your permission).  

How to share

Please contact us at news@brighton-hove.gov.uk by Thursday 31 July. We can arrange to collect photographs safely and return them to you. 

Privacy

All contributions will be handled sensitively. We will seek your explicit permission before using any material publicly.

Paying tribute

Councillor Amanda Grimshaw, The Mayor of Brighton & Hove and Armed Forces Champion for the city, said: “As the Armed Forces Champion, I am particularly keen to hear from residents with a personal connection who would be interested in sharing their stories and remembrances of Victory in Japan Day.

Whether it’s personal stories, or objects passed down through generations, all will be treated with respect while helping us pay tribute to men and women who sacrificed so much in the Far East.”