Monday, August 15, 2005

VJ Day - 60 years ago

60 years ago today Emperor Hirohito and the Japanese government surrendered to the Allies, accepting the Potsdam Declaration. It marked the end of World War II which to some officially began with the German invasion of Poland in September 1939 but many in the Far East believed began in 1937 at the Marco Polo Bridge in China or for others the Japanese annexation of Manchuria in 1931.

The Americans who fought in the War came to be known, rightly, as the Greatest Generation. This generation, the living, fighting arm of the Arsenal of Democracy, made it possible to turn back the tide of fascism in Europe and Asia. And while it left Communism to be dealt with another day - their efforts and sacrifice should never be forgotten.

Nor should the sacrifice of our many Allies, notably those of the British Commonwealth and the Chinese who lost untold blood and treasure in the struggle.

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