Garden of Remembrance
Folkestone is set to gather on Thursday, August 15, 2025, to solemnly mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day). This significant date in history, August 15, 1945, saw the surrender of Japan, bringing an end to the brutal combat of the Second World War.
The town will host a poignant commemorative service and wreath-laying ceremony at the Burma Star Memorial within the serene Garden of Remembrance on Sandgate Road. The service is scheduled to commence at 1100 hrs and is expected to draw a distinguished assembly of civic dignitaries, military personnel, representatives from ex-service associations with their standards, and youth organisations, all united in remembrance.
This year’s service will be conducted by the Mayor’s Chaplain, the Reverend Christopher Johnson. Members of the public are warmly invited to attend and pay their respects, joining the community in honouring those who served and sacrificed, and reflecting on the momentous end of the war. As the 80th anniversary approaches, Folkestone stands ready to ensure that the memory of VJ Day and its profound significance remains undimmed.