Few announcements in Australian history have provoked such spontaneous displays of emotion as Prime Minister Ben Chifley’s on 15 August 1945. On that day, Japan announced it would surrender to Allied forces. Victory in Europe had been achieved on 8 May 1945 and Japan’s surrender ended World War II, which had raged for almost six years.

Arrival of the (R-L) White Ensign, Army banner and Royal Australian Air Force
colours representing the three services of the Australian Defence Force, by the
Australia's Federation Guard at the Great Hall Reception, VP Day, 2005

Each year, on August 15th, we, as Australians, unite to celebrate that much waited announcement; to commemorate the time, the date and the words that were uttered; to remember our mates, especially those who did not return.