This Sunday, Aug. 15, marks the 65th anniversary of Japan’s surrender to the Allied Forces.

While the official end of the war did not come until Sept. 2, the end of fighting in the Pacific effectively marked the end of the fighting.

As a nation we cannot forget the tremendous sacrifice made by those who fought in World War II.

Congress recently passed legislation memorializing the end of World War II and helping pay tribute to these brave warriors.

Currently there are over 6,400 surviving veterans who served our country honorably during World War II who live within the boundaries of the First Congressional District.

We salute and thank each of them for a job well done, especially Laverne Mack from Napa, who has worked hard to ensure that our nation does not forget our World War II veterans.

And as we recognize and thank World War II veterans let us remember the dedication and sacrifice being made by all those in uniform who put their lives on the line each day for our country.

Congressman Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena) represents the First Congressional District in the US House of Representatives.