15:00 JST, August 16, 2026

The National Memorial Ceremony for the War Dead was held at the Nippon Budokan hall in Tokyo on Saturday to mark the anniversary of the end of World War II. We pray for the repose of the souls of the 3.1 million people who lost their lives for their country during the war.

It is important to continue making efforts to ensure that the memory of the tragedy is not forgotten, while also redoubling efforts toward peace.

More than half of the bereaved family members attending the memorial ceremony since last year were born after the war. Elementary school-age children from the bereaved families played a role in distributing flowers to attendees of the ceremony to be used as offerings. It is essential to pass on the commitment to peace to younger generations.

The Emperor said during the ceremony, “Reflecting on our........

© The Japan News