“It is my earnest hope and indeed the hope of all mankind that from this solemn occasion a better world shall emerge out of the blood and carnage of the past.” — Gen. Douglas MacArthur, supreme commander of the Allied Forces, Sept. 2, 1945.

So ended the most devastating war in human history, as Japan formally surrendered to the Allies in a ceremony aboard the USS Missouri.

About 3 percent of the world‘s population died in the war. According to the World War II Museum, there were 45 million civilian deaths, 15 million combat deaths and 25 million wounded in battle. Some 418,500 Americans gave their lives.

The Bremerton Patriot, Central Kitsap Reporter and their monthly publication, Veterans Life, will salute the Greatest Generation in August and September. We invite you to help us honor the World War II veterans you know. Send us a recent or wartime photo of your servicemember with the following information:

— Name.

— Hometown or most recent city of residence.

— Branch.

— Years of service.

— Highest rank attained.

— Significant duty stations or deployments during the war.

— Post-war career.

— If POW, MIA, killed in action or injured in combat, please indicate that fact.

Your servicemember did not have to serve in combat to be included. All World War II veterans will be included, whether they saw combat or supported America’s military mission from the States.

Send your veteran tribute to the editor of Veterans Life at P.O. Box 278, Poulsbo, WA 98370, or email the text and photos in .jpg format to rwalker@soundpublishing.com.