09/02/2026
Eighty-one years ago today, World War II formally came to an end.
On Sept. 2, 1945, representatives of Japan signed the Instrument of Surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, bringing the deadliest conflict in modern history to its official conclusion.
Today, we remember the millions who served, sacrificed, and gave their lives during World War II, and we honor the veterans and families whose courage helped secure freedom for generations to come.
May their service and sacrifice never be forgotten.
Photo credits: U.S. Army Signal Corps; U.S. Navy; National Park Service photo by Abbie Rowe; Harry S. Truman Library & Museum.