FRIDAY marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific, commemorating the end of Australia’s involvement in World War II, with a service in Moree planned.

The special day marks the formal acceptance of surrender terms by the Japanese government, effectively ending the war on August 15, 1945.

Events are planned across Australia – and globally – to honour the significant milestone, with Moree RSL Regional Military Museum conducting a special commemorative service in the foyer area of the museum.

Moree RSL Sub-Branch president John Williams said August 15 is an important date in Australia’s history.

“This is a very significant date, and marks the end of the second world war,” Mr Williams said.

“We invite veterans and their families, and the families who have lost loved ones in times of war, to come along and attend the service,” Mr Williams said. The commemorative service will take place at 10am.

On August 15, 1945, Japan accepted the Allied Nations’ terms of surrender and Australia’s Prime Minister, Ben Chifley, announced the war was over.

World War II is a significant event in Australia’s history. Nearly 1 million Australians served in the armed forces and it was also the first time since European settlement that Australia came under attack.

On VP Day, Australia’s war efforts from 1942 to 1945 in the Pacific region are remembered and recognised, including conflicts in Singapore, Borneo, Malaya, Papua, New Guinea and New Britain.

It was a time when people worked hard and co-operated to defend the nation.

Some 40,000 Australians didn’t return home to their families, with more than 17,000 losing their lives while fighting against Japan. At least 8000 Australians died in Japanese captivity.

Minister for Veterans David Harris said the 80thh anniversary was an important milestone.

“On Friday we come together on a special anniversary of VP Day to remember all the men and women who served during the Second World War, abroad in Europe and the Pacific, as well as those who served and the public who endured the war on the home front,” Mr Harris said.

“We honour the nearly 1 million Australians who served, and the 39,000 Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of peace and the freedom we enjoy to this day.

“We thank them for their sacrifices, through conflict and, for many, long periods in captivity. Their contributions helped keep us safe and our nation from further attack during a war that was fought so close to our shores,” he said.