The courage and sacrifice of those who served in the Far East was honoured at a VJ Day service in Clacton.

Residents joined councillors and members of the Armed Forces community at Clacton War Memorial on Saturday, 15 August, for a simple and reflective act of remembrance.

The service was led by Reverend David Lower, with a reading by Tendring District Council (TDC) Chairman Ann Oxley and the Last Post played by bugler Floyd Davis.

VJ Day, or Victory over Japan Day, marked the end of the Second World War and is a chance to honour those who served in the Far East, including many whose bravery and hardship were not always fully recognised at the time.

Councillor Oxley thanked those who joined the service and said the turnout reflected the district’s continued respect for those who served.

“It was moving to see people come together at Clacton War Memorial to mark VJ Day and pay their respects,” she said.

“These moments matter because they give us chance to pause as a community and remember the service, courage and sacrifice of those who helped bring the Second World War to an end.

“I would like to thank everyone who joined us for this act of remembrance and helped show that the contribution of those who served has not been forgotten.”

Councillor Dan Casey, TDC’s Armed Forces Champion and president of Clacton Royal British Legion, said the service was an important reminder of the experiences of those who served in the Far East.

“VJ Day has a very deep significance for veterans, service families and all those connected to the Armed Forces community,” he said.

“For many who served in the Far East, the end of the war came only after years of hardship, separation and brutal conditions.

“It is right that we continue to recognise that service and make sure those sacrifices are properly remembered.

“Thank you to everyone who attended, to those who supported the service, and to all who continue to help keep this important part of our history alive.”

‍