AI-assisted summary

While widespread jubilation marked the event, some servicemen present served as a sobering reminder of World War II's cost.

Despite the excitement, liquor stores closed early by order of the governor, preventing excessive drinking during the festivities.

Amid the celebration, many residents also attended church services to offer prayers of thanks and remembrance.

Cars jammed downtown Erie.

Horns blasted. Church bells rang. Factory whistles sounded. Crowds beat on anything that would make noise.

It was "the loudest and wildest celebration in the history of the town," and it was spontaneous at the news of Japan's surrender on Aug. 14, 1945.

Germany's surrender months earlier had been more solemnly acknowledged, mostly in church services. The Japanese surrender effe

See Full Page