On Thursday, August 14th, the Essex County Museum and Historical Society, in partnership with the Tappahannock Rotary and American Legion Post 64, hosted a special commemorative event marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s unconditional surrender, which effectively brought an end to World War II.
The evening featured a thought-provoking discussion moderated by Victor Burrell, with Retired U.S. Army General Carl Strock and historian Craig Shirley serving as keynote speakers. The night’s guest of honor was local World War II veteran Mr. Henry Page, who will be celebrating his 96th birthday next month. Mr. Page received a standing ovation from the assembled crowd, who gave him the respect and deference he has more than earned as one of the last members of the ‘Greatest Generation’. It is estimated that fewer than 1% of the 16.4 million service members who served during World War II are still alive today.
The program was hosted by I.C. Smith and American Legion Post 64, with the Essex County Museum playing a central role. Museum President Zorine Shirley has had an ongoing column all summer, Chronicles of Victory, to mark these anniversaries and also introduced the panel, while Executive Director Tim Manley and Curator Jaime Fawcett presented a selection of rare and meaningful artifacts from the Museum’s collection, including a Japanese Shin Guntō sword, medical kit, and other items brought home from the war, along with an original woodcut print of the USS Astoria entering Yokohama Bay from Manley’s personal collection. Attendees were invited to bring personal items and share family stories connected to the war, creating an engaging and interactive experience.
Our thanks to everyone who attended, to our wonderful panel, and to our gracious host!