Ceremony Registration

Wednesday, September 2, 2026

V-J Day at the World War II Memorial

Remembering the Day World War II Ended
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On September 2, 1945, representatives of Japan formally surrendered aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, bringing six years of global conflict to an end and allowing a war-weary world to welcome the return of peace.

Please join Friends of the National World War II Memorial on Wednesday, September 2, at 11:00 a.m. ET at the National World War II Memorial in Washington, DC, for a solemn V-J Day observance commemorating the 81st anniversary of the end of World War II.

Together with World War II veterans, their families, military representatives, and members of the public, we will remember the more than 400,000 Americans who gave their lives during the war and honor the millions of men and women whose service and sacrifice helped secure victory.

As part of the ceremony, World War II veterans will place wreaths at the Memorial in remembrance of their fallen brothers and sisters and all those who served in defense of freedom.

World War II veterans and their families are especially encouraged to attend. If you are a World War II veteran, or know a veteran who would like to participate in the ceremony, please indicate that when registering so that we may properly welcome and recognize them.
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To attend in-person, please register below.

If you are unable to attend in-person, you may watch the ceremony Live on Friends' Facebook page so you can participate virtually and help us honor all who served.