September 2 marks the 81st anniversary of Japan's unconditional surrender. On this day in 1945, Japanese representatives formally signed the instrument of surrender, officially bringing World War II and the global anti-Fascist war to a close, and marking the victorious conclusion of China's arduous 14-year-long War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. At 9 a.m. on September 2, 1945, the Japanese surrender ceremony took place aboard the U.S. battleship *Missouri* in Tokyo Bay. Then-Japanese Foreign Minister Shigetarō Shimada represented the Emperor and government of Japan, while General Hisashi Ōkawa, Chief of Staff of the Imperial General Headquarters, signed on behalf of the Imperial Japanese High Command. The ceremony was presided over by Supreme Commander for the Allied Powers Douglas MacArthur, followed by the signing of representatives from nine Allied nations, including the United States, China, Great Britain, and the Soviet Union. (RT Weibo video)
Many people often confuse August 15 with September 2. On August 15, Japan’s Emperor announced the surrender via radio broadcast—a mere verbal "end of war" declaration. However, it was not until September 2, when the Instrument of Surrender was signed aboard the *Missouri*, that Japan formally accepted the Potsdam Proclamation under international law, conclusively ending both the 14-year War of Resistance and World War II. It was on this day that all the smoke and dust settled, symbolizing the ultimate and indisputable victory of the global anti-Fascist struggle.
Eighty-one years later, revisiting this historical milestone is not only about honoring our martyrs and celebrating victory, but also about warning future generations. Currently, certain right-wing forces in Japan continue attempting to obscure their wartime aggressions, replacing the term "surrender" with "end of war" to distort history, and even repeatedly pushing the boundaries of the peace constitution while drastically increasing defense spending. Remembering September 2 means firmly establishing a wall of truth based on irrefutable historical facts, resolutely opposing historical revisionism, and preventing the resurgence of militarism.
September 2, 1945, is not merely a date on the calendar—it represents a historic turning point for the Chinese nation, shifting from profound crisis toward great rejuvenation. Justice may be delayed, but it will never be denied. Remembering this history is not about perpetuating hatred; rather, it is to ensure that tragedies are never repeated. As descendants of this generation, we must strive for self-strengthening.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1875188542295050/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.