ELMIRA, NY (WENY) -- August 14th, 2025, marks the 80th anniversary of the day former President Harry Truman announced Japan's surrender, marking the end of World War II. On Thursday, a ceremony called the 'Spirit of '45' was held at Woodlawn National Cemetery in Elmira to honor World War II veterans and their sacrifices.

"A lot of them didn’t make it, and I’m just one of the fortunate ones. It feels good that somebody wants them to be honored, and they chose me," said Navy Veteran Harry Hoyt, who served in WWII from 1944 to 1946.

Ceremonies like the 'Spirit of '45' take place every five years to honor 'The Greatest Generation.' According to 2024 data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, fewer than one percent of WWII vets are still alive.

Among those who served and died

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