#USA #Santa Cruz #WWII #Laura Elliott #VJ Day

Celebrating 80 Years Since VJ Day with Laura Elliott's Memoir Launch

On August 15, 2025, Santa Cruz, California, will host a significant milestone event in honor of the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. Local author Laura Elliott is inviting her community to come together for a heartwarming celebration that blends history with personal storytelling. This special occasion marks the launch of her debut memoir, "Dear Laura: A Lost Chapter of WWII," which has quickly climbed the ranks to become an Amazon #1 New Release bestseller.

The event is scheduled to take place from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, and it’s a free event open to all ages, making it a perfect gathering for families and history enthusiasts alike.

A Journey Through Letters and Memories

Laura Elliott's memoir presents a deeply personal and emotional narrative centered on her father’s experiences as a Japanese POW during World War II. The story unfolds against the backdrop of the Japanese Occupation of Indonesia, detailing how her family was taken captive to coerce her grandfather, a radio engineer, into working on a secret military project for the Japanese forces. The harrowing tale culminates in their miraculous rescue by the U.S. Marines off the coast of Hamamatsu, Japan, on VJ Day, August 15, 1945.

Written as a series of heartfelt letters exchanged between Laura and her father over decades, the memoir unravels the connection between historical events and personal stories. With themes of courage, faith, and resilience, Elliott seeks not only to share her family’s extraordinary journey but also to remind readers that remarkable stories can often be found in our own backgrounds.

Event Highlights

Those attending the launch can look forward to an engaging evening that promises to be both nostalgic and educational. Here are some key highlights that attendees can expect:

• - Book Reading and Author Reflections: At 7:00 PM, Laura will share some of her insights and inspirations behind writing her memoir, providing a glimpse into her creative process and reflections on her father's life.
• - Live Big Band Music from WWII Era: The atmosphere will be alive with music, allowing guests to dance and immerse themselves in the sounds of the 1940s. Attire from the era is encouraged, adding a fun and immersive element to the festivities.
• - Authentic Indonesian Cuisine: To celebrate her family's heritage, guests can enjoy delicious Indonesian bites, paired with a celebratory champagne toast.
• - Display of WWII Memorabilia: The event will feature rare artifacts related to the memoir, offering a unique opportunity to connect with history firsthand.
• - Legacy Storytelling Stations: Attendees will have the chance to engage in storytelling sessions, sharing their own tales and experiences related to the WWII era.
• - Book Signing Opportunity: Limited signed copies of "Dear Laura" will be available for purchase, providing fans and readers a chance to own a piece of this poignant history.

Join the Celebration

Laura Elliott's memoir launch is not just a book event; it is a tribute to the spirit of remembrance and the resilience of families affected by the ravages of war. As the community gathers to celebrate VJ Day and the stories that shape our understanding of history, everyone is encouraged to come, participate, and honor the legacy of those who endured these profound experiences.

To learn more about the event or to reserve a spot, visit Laura's Magic Day. Together, let’s cherish the past and celebrate the stories that continue to inspire us.