Who opened Japan’s September 2, 1945 surrender ceremony aboard USS Missouri?

General Douglas MacArthur opened Japan’s September 2, 1945 surrender ceremony aboard USS Missouri.

MacArthur served as Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers and accepted Japan’s surrender on behalf of the Allied nations. He began the 23-minute ceremony with remarks expressing hope that the occasion would lead to a better world based on freedom, tolerance, justice, and understanding.

After opening the proceedings, MacArthur signed the Japanese Instrument of Surrender in his capacity as Supreme Commander. Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz then signed as the United States representative, followed by delegates representing the other Allied powers.

MacArthur is sometimes confused with Nimitz because both were among the highest-ranking American commanders in the Pacific. Their responsibilities differed: MacArthur commanded Allied forces in the Southwest Pacific and led the occupation of Japan, while Nimitz commanded the U.S. Pacific Fleet and represented the United States at the signing.