To mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, Luton Point will be taking part in the national two-minute silence on Friday, August 15 at 12 noon, honouring all those who served.
The following day, Saturday, August 16, Luton Point will host a World War II-themed display in partnership with the Luton & District Model Boat Club. Taking place in Central Square from 11am until 4pm, this free community event invites visitors of all ages to witness an extraordinary showcase of model military history. The display will be headlined by an impressive 9ft replica of the Yamato, the largest battleship ever built. Commissioned by the Imperial Japanese Navy in 1941, the Yamato was a formidable symbol of naval power during WWII, stretching 863ft in real life and now brought to life in miniature form.
The display will also feature an array of other detailed model warships, tanks and aircraft from both Japanese and American forces, offering a fascinating insight into naval and military engineering of the era.
Visitors can also meet a representative from the Royal British Legion, who will be present on the day with merchandise available to help raise funds and support their important work with veterans and military families.
Lavinia Douglass, marketing manager for Luton Point, said: “We’re proud to welcome the Luton & District Model Boat Club back to Luton Point as part of our VJ Day 80th anniversary commemorations. This incredible display offers a powerful and engaging way for the community to connect with an important moment in history. It’s a unique opportunity to see detailed replicas up close and learn more about the legacy of WWII.”