That was the theme Port Macquarie RSL sub-Branch secretary Gary Spencer used during his commemorative address at the 2019 Victory in the Pacific service on Thursday, August 15.

There was a small number of people at the service.

Mr Spencer said World War II saw one million citizens of a population of just 7.4 million serve in the armed forces during the war.

He said the decision by Japan to enter the war also fast-tracked the distinct possibility that Australia could be invaded.

"When Singapore fell and bombs rained on Darwin and other northern centres in 1942, those fears appeared to be confirmed," he said.

"In the end, it was probably Australia's distance that provided the greatest measure of protection, coupled with the return of Australia's forces from the Middle East and the US decision to defend Australia from invasion."

Mr Spencer said VP Day recognises the official defeat of the first direct enemy to Australia but symbolises a far greater triumph for the nation.

"It was a triumph of freedom, of camaraderie, of peace and of the Australian spirit which lives on in the legacy of every Australian who contributed to our Victory in the Pacific," he said.

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