King Charles III on Friday led the United Kingdom in marking the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, paying tribute to the “courage” of World War II veterans and survivors of the conflict.
The commemorations took place at the National Memorial Arboretum in central England, where Charles, Queen Camilla, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and other dignitaries joined dozens of veterans for a remembrance service. Wreaths and floral tributes were laid, followed by a two-minute silence at noon to remember Japan’s surrender in 1945, which brought an end to WWII.
The 33 veterans in attendance, aged between 96 and 105, all served in East Asia and the Pacific. The ceremony also featured flypasts by the Red Arrows and WWII-era aircraft. In an audio message, Charles pledged that the “service and sacrifice” of those who “saw the forces of liberty prevail” would “never be forgotten,” calling their bravery a “flame that shall blaze for eternity.”
The King also acknowledged the devastation of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, stressing the hope that “no nation need ever pay again” such a price. Starmer, speaking at a Downing Street reception for veterans, drew parallels between WWII values and Ukraine’s current struggle, affirming that the UK must honour past sacrifices for future generations.
Remembrance events also took place across the country, including at the Tower of London, Belfast City Hall, and Edinburgh Castle, where a lone piper performed.
What you should know
VJ Day marks the end of World War II, following Japan’s surrender in 1945. In the UK, it is commemorated on August 15, while the US marks it on September 2.
The day honours those who fought in the Asia-Pacific theatre and remembers the lives lost during the conflict, including the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
