On Friday 15 August & Sunday 24 August, we warmly invite everyone to join us for a weekend of remembrance, reflection, and music in Amersham’s beautiful Memorial Gardens.

As we approach the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, we’re coming together as a community to mark this important moment in our shared history—remembering those who served, those who sacrificed, and those who never came home.

On Friday 15 August & Sunday 24 August, we warmly invite everyone, locals and visitors alike, to join us for a weekend of remembrance, reflection, and music in Amersham’s beautiful Memorial Gardens.
Whether you have a personal connection or simply want to pay your respects, all are welcome!

Friday 15 August – Quiet Reflection & Candlelight Tribute

  • 12:00pm – A two-minute silence will be led informally by Mayor Cllr. Elizabeth Woodhead at the WWII Memorial in Old Amersham. A simple, heartfelt moment of remembrance.

  • 8:40pm – Join us as we light 80 tea lights in the Memorial Gardens—one for each year since the end of the war in the Pacific.

  • 8:45pm – The Mayor will give a short address, followed by the Exhortation, read by the President of the Amersham & District Royal British Legion, and a two-minute silence.

Sunday 24 August – Commemoration Concert in the Memorial Gardens

This promises to be a truly memorable afternoon. We’re honoured to welcome the RAF Squadronaires—one of the RAF’s most celebrated bands—for a special concert in tribute to VJ Day 80.

  • 2:15pm – A short commemorative service, led by the Royal British Legion, including:

    • A blessing by Rev’d Michelle Fotherby (St Mary’s Church)

    • Wreath-laying by honoured guests, including:

      • Deputy Lieutenant Mr Bill Morris LVO

      • Lynda Atkins, National Chair of the Royal British Legion

      • The Town Mayor/Deputy

    • The Exhortation, raising and lowering of the standards, The Last Post, a two-minute silence, and Reveille

  • 2:28pm – Introduction by the Mayor/Deputy

  • 2:30pm – RAF Squadronaires in Concert
    Expect an uplifting, moving performance filled with history, heart, and harmony.
    There will also be a short presentation during the concert’s intermission to thank our retiring Parade Marshal for their years of dedicated service.

 

AddressMemorial Gardens, Old Amersham