Shaynee Modien
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Shaunavon Standard
“Time is relative: its worth depends on what we do as it passes.” – Albert Einstein
2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. This year, on August 15, we also commemorate the end of the war with Japan, known as Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.
From 1941 to 1945, Canada was at war with Japan, engaging in some of the most vicious conflicts in history. As we reflect on this period, The Shaunavon Standard reached out to various groups to see how they plan to honour the veterans of this portion of the war.
Robert Loken, National Manager of Honours, Awards, and Commemoration at Veterans Affairs Canada in Ottawa, noted that while each Legion across the country decides on its own commemorative events, Veterans Affairs has planned some national gatherings. Two national events are scheduled, one in Ottawa and the other in Vancouver.
Loken explained that the locations were chosen because Ottawa is the nation’s capital, and Vancouver is one of the main cities on the Pacific Coast that was actively involved in the war with Japan.
The first national event, tied to VJ Day, is in partnership with the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association. Carol Hadley, Prairie Regional Director of the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association, based in Winnipeg, mentioned that there will be two ceremonies for the public in Ottawa on August 15-17. The first is a commemorative ceremony at the National War memorial on Friday, August 15, at 11 am, and the second is at the HKVCA Memorial Wall on Saturday, August 16, at 10 am. More details on these events can be found in the national newsletter of the Hong Kong Veterans Commemorative Association or at http://www.hkvca.ca/
The other national event is on the west coast, with Vancouver hosting “Kites for Peace” on August 17.
According to their website, “Veterans Affairs Canada will host a commemorative event at Vancouver’s Sunset Beach to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Pacific and the end of the Second World War, culminating in a unique ‘Kites for Peace’ activity.
The event will include remarks, live musical performances, and exhibitors showcasing diversity, Canadian multiculturalism, and Canada’s military contributions, with a focus on the end of the Second World War. There will also be a kite-decorating workshop and a chance for participants to fly their ‘Kites for Peace.'”
Loken mentioned that there will be many more solemn VJ Day programs across the country, including some in Saskatchewan. However, not all Legions have major plans, such as the Shaunavon Legion. Brenda Waldron, spokesperson for the Shaunavon Legion, stated that nothing was planned, as Remembrance Day remains their main event. “A lot of Legions have fewer veterans as members,” she noted.
When asked about the number of Canadian Pacific veterans still alive, VA Robert Loken replied that there are fewer and fewer veterans from WW2, and it’s “hard to put a number on” as vets are listed “strictly under the WW2 group” with fewer and fewer around. Loken added that “soon there won’t be any left.” He emphasized the importance of visiting with veterans and hearing their stories firsthand, which he considers the favourite part of his job.
As our Second World War veterans continue to pass away, we must keep their memories alive.
“Someone stepped up to help our freedom, and we must recognize it,” Loken stated.
