A: Hey there! Guess what? Any idea why today's such a special day in Japan?
B: No, I haven't heard anything special. What's up?

A: It's the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two! The whole nation's commemorating it.
B: Wow, really?! That sounds serious... So, what are they doing?

A: On August 15, 1945, people listened to radios at noon for Emperor Showa's announcement that the war was over.
B: That must have been a big moment! I wonder how folks felt when they heard it...

A: They've turned this day into an official one of remembrance and peace reflection. Each year, they hold a ceremony in Tokyo for those who died during the war.
B: This year, around 4,500 people will be there, including family members of the fallen soldiers. The oldest is a 98-year-old man from Hokkaido!

A: And here's something interesting - nearly half of those attending are aged 80 or older! They want to pass on their stories to younger generations.
B: That's amazing... It shows the importance of remembering history, doesn't it?

A: Definitely! There will also be events happening all around Japan by families and local governments.
B: Let's hope that these commemorations lead to a better understanding and lasting peace for everyone.
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People in Japan are commemorating 80 years since the end of World War Two on Friday. A government ceremony is set to start a little before noon. The country regards the day Japanese learned of its surrender as the war's conclusion.



On August 15, 1945, not long after the US atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, people gathered around radios at noon.



They heard Emperor Showa, whose given name was Hirohito.



For most, it was the first time they had ever heard his voice. He told them the war was over.



The government later declared August 15th an official day of remembrance and a time to reflect on peace.
It organizes an annual ceremony in the capital to remember the approximately 3.1 million people who died and pray for peace.



This year, about 4,500 people, including family members of the war dead, will take part. They will offer silent prayers for a minute at noon.



Emperor Naruhito will then deliver a speech.



Nearly half of the relatives set to attend the event are aged 80 or older.



The oldest is a 98-year-old man from the northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido. His brother died at the age of 26.



Young people are also taking part. 83 relatives under the age of 18 will attend so that they can pass on stories of hardship to future generations.



More events are planned across the country by groups of bereaved families and local governments.
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Quiz 1:
On what day does Japan commemorate the end of World War Two?
A. July 15th
B. August 15th
C. September 15th
D. October 15th

Quiz 2:
Who delivered the speech to the people of Japan on August 15, 1945, announcing the end of the war?
A. Emperor Naruhito
B. Emperor Showa (Hirohito)
C. The US President at that time
D. A local radio broadcaster

Quiz 3:
How many people are expected to participate in this year's ceremony to remember those who died during World War Two?
A. More than 4,500
B. Around 4,500
C. Exactly 4,500
D. Less than 4,500

[Answer block]
Answers:
Quiz 1: B
Quiz 2: B
Quiz 3: B