Armed Forces community

Communities joining together across Walsall to mark 80 years since VJ Day

Published on 19 August 2025

Events across the borough paid tribute to the sacrifices made during the Second World War and celebrated the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (Wednesday 15 August 2025).

Collage of various VJ Day celebrations which took place across the borough

Events took place between Saturday 9 August and Saturday 16 August 2025, with community groups, faith organisations and veterans’ associations leading commemorations across the borough. Activities ranged from remembrance services, beacon lightings and moments of silence, through to community lunches, musical performances and themed gatherings

On Friday 15 August 2025, a flag was flown outside the Council House in Walsall to mark the anniversary, and residents across the borough joined the national two-minute silence at 12 noon to reflect on the sacrifices of all those who served.

“ The 80th anniversary of VJ Day has given us the opportunity to come together as a community to remember those who served, to reflect on their sacrifice, and to give thanks for the peace that followed.

It has been a privilege to attend so many of the commemorations across our borough and to share in the way residents have marked this important anniversary. Each event was different, but all carried the same sense of remembrance, gratitude and togetherness.

Seeing people of all ages take part was truly moving. It showed how much this occasion still means to us today, and how committed we are to ensuring that the memory of those who served lives on. I want to thank every group and volunteer who worked so hard to make these commemorations possible. “

The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison

“ Marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day has been an important reminder of the sacrifice and courage of those who served in the Second World War.

Here in Walsall, we are proud of our armed forces community, past and present, and it has been inspiring to see so many residents honour that legacy. By coming together in remembrance and reflection, we ensure that their contribution is never forgotten. “

Councillor Adam Hicken, Walsall Council’s Armed Forces Champion

Commemorations took place across the borough, with local groups and organisations hosting events that combined remembrance, reflection and community spirit. In Aldridge, the Royal British Legion held a family fun day, while the Rotary Club organised a beacon lighting with a bugle call and ode to remembrance. In Palfrey, Aaina Community Hub held a 1940s-themed garden party, and Bloxwich Community Partnership staged a singalong performance of wartime songs at the Stan Ball Centre.

Events continued throughout the week. Brownhills Community Association, Holy Ascension Church in Little Bloxwich, the Moxley People’s Centre and Walsall Community Association all welcomed residents to commemorative gatherings with music, reflection and shared meals. The Collingwood Centre hosted a 1940s-style lunch, while Darlaston marked the anniversary with a service at the cenotaph followed by a Town Hall celebration. Community groups including the Black Sisters Collective, Revive Café and Willenhall Chart also organised activities highlighting remembrance, peace and togetherness.

On the anniversary itself, Walsall Community Transport held a tea party at St Paul’s Bus Station, Manor Farm Community Association planted a peace shrub, and Bloxwich Hub welcomed residents for a themed lunch and live music. Additionally, the Mayor of Walsall held her 'At Homes' afternoon tea at Walsall Town Hall, welcoming dignitaries and representatives from local organisations.

Commemorations carried on into the weekend with a sponsored walk in Short Heath, a community barbecue in Birchills, and a remembrance service and street celebration in Pelsall Village.

The programme was supported by small grants from Walsall Council in partnership with Walsall Community Network, helping local groups to host events and bring people together.