Canada marks 70th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day

Canada held a memorial event Saturday here at the National War Memorial to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Victory over Japan (V-J) Day, which marked the end of World War II.

Hundreds of people from all walks of life attended the event. Dozens of veterans, war widows and members of their families were present at the National War Memorial accompanied by marching bands.

Many of the thinning ranks of veterans arrived in wheelchairs, medals glistening in the sun.

Canadian Minister of Veteran Affairs Erin O'Toole and Minister of National Defence Jason Kenny made separate speech recalling brave Canadian troops who made remarkable contributions and tremendous sacrifices during the World War II against the Japanese military.

The event also featured hymns, a piped lament and moving readings.

The bulk of Canada's military efforts in the World War II was focused on defeating Germany in Europe and on the North Atlantic. Canada also committed forces in the war against Japan in Asia, with more than 10,000 Canadian soldiers serving at that time.

The most well-known of Canadian bravery was the defence of Hong Kong in 1941, in which hundreds of Canadian soldiers sacrificed their lives, and survivors suffered terrible hardships as prisoners of war until the end of World War II.