What does “V-J” stand for in the name Victory over Japan Day?

“V-J” stands for “Victory over Japan” in the name Victory over Japan Day.

The term identifies the Allied victory over Japan at the end of World War II. It parallels V-E Day, or Victory in Europe Day, which marked Nazi Germany’s surrender in May 1945. V-J Day therefore refers specifically to the end of the war against Japan and the broader Pacific conflict.

The date associated with V-J Day differs by country and by which event is emphasized. In the United States, celebrations began after Truman’s announcement on 14 August 1945. Many Commonwealth countries marked 15 August, when Emperor Hirohito’s recorded announcement was broadcast in Japan. The formal surrender ceremony occurred on 2 September aboard USS Missouri.

The expression does not mean that every Japanese military unit stopped fighting immediately. Some isolated forces surrendered later, and fighting continued in parts of Asia and the Pacific after the initial announcements.