The Forgotten Final Battle of WWII: 80 Years Since the Soviet–Japanese War of 1945

August 8 to September 2, 1945 — a mere 26 days that reshaped East Asia, hastened the end of World War II, and altered the course of modern history. 

Often overshadowed by the more familiar battles of Normandy or the Pacific islands, the Soviet–Japanese War — also known as the Liberation War of 1945 — was a masterclass in military coordination, political intent, and strategic impact. In 2025, we mark the 80th anniversary of this final thunderstrike of World War II and it's time to give it the recognition it deserves.

The Fastest War You’ve Never Heard Enough About

On August 8, 1945, the Soviet Union declared war on Japan. Within 24 hours, over a million Soviet troops backed by Mongolian cavalry units and battle-hardened tank brigades surged across Manchuria, Inner Mongolia, Korea, and Sakhalin.

This was not a symbolic action. It was a crushing blow to the already faltering Japanese Empire. Soviet Marshal Aleksandr Vasilevsky led a coordinated three-pronged invasion that stunned Japanese command. The famed Kwantung Army — once considered an elite force was dismantled in weeks.

By September 2, 1945, the fighting had ended. Japan formally surrendered, and the war was over.

But the echoes of this operation can still be heard today — in modern borders, in regional tensions, and in the legacy of the Mongolian and Soviet forces that executed one of the most efficient campaigns in military history.

Why It Matters 

• This was the final military operation of World War II.

• It demonstrated the strategic importance of Mongolia as a Soviet ally.

• It marked the beginning of Korea’s division and reshaped China’s northeast.

• It contributed directly to Japan’s surrender, just after Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

For collectors, historians, and anyone who values the material history of global turning points — the Liberation War of 1945 represents a unique and underappreciated chapter.

From the Battlefield to Your Collection: Original Artifacts Available Now

Preserving history is not just about remembering facts — it's about holding onto the fragments that tell a story. At our store, we’ve curated a set of authentic items linked directly to the 1945 campaign.

Featured Artifacts Include:

• Liberation War Medals

• Uniform Pieces & Insignia worn during the 1945 offensive

• Wartime Documents including demobilization records and commendations

Each item is verified, preserved, and presented with care — ideal for collectors, museums, or anyone seeking a tangible link to a historic victory.

Own a Piece of the Liberation War – Before It’s Gone

To honor the 80th anniversary, we’re offering a limited-time discount on our 1945 campaign items. Use code LIBERATION80 at checkout to receive 10% off through September 2, 2025.

Explore the 1945 Collection Here

Let’s remember history not just in words — but through the rare objects that survived it.