In the World War II term “V-J Day,” the “V” represents Victory.
The full name is Victory over Japan Day, marking Japan’s acceptance of the terms of the Potsdam Declaration and the end of the Pacific War. The “J” identifies Japan, just as “V-E Day” means Victory in Europe Day.
The date associated with V-J Day varies by context. Japan’s surrender announcement was broadcast on August 15, 1945, while the formal surrender document was signed aboard USS Missouri on September 2, 1945. In the United States, President Harry S. Truman announced Japan’s surrender on August 14 because of the time difference.
This distinction explains why history books may list August 15, August 14, or September 2 when discussing V-J Day. The dates refer to different stages of the same surrender process.