On what date was Japan's formal World War II surrender ceremony held aboard USS Missouri?

Japan's formal World War II surrender ceremony aboard USS Missouri was held on September 2, 1945.

The ceremony took place in Tokyo Bay and involved Japanese representatives, General Douglas MacArthur, and representatives of nine Allied governments. The Japanese Instrument of Surrender was signed shortly after 9:00 a.m., bringing the war with Japan formally to an end.

September 2 is distinct from August 15, when Emperor Hirohito's recorded announcement was broadcast to the Japanese public. August 15 marked the public announcement of Japan's decision, while September 2 marked the formal signing of the surrender document.

The date has also produced different V-J Day commemorations. Some countries emphasize August 15 because that was when the surrender announcement was heard, while the United States has traditionally associated V-J Day with September 2, the date of the official signing.