King Charles Leads UK Commemorations for 80th Anniversary of VJ Day
By Fidelis News Staff | 15 August 2025
On the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, King Charles will deliver a poignant address this morning as the nation pauses to reflect on the sacrifices made in the Asia-Pacific campaign of World War II. His message, echoing his grandfather King George VI’s 1945 broadcast, is scheduled for 7:30 am BST. (The Guardian)
Service of Remembrance at National Memorial Arboretum
The King and Queen Camilla will attend a major ceremony hosted by the Royal British Legion at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Japanese officials, and surviving veterans, including Burma Star recipients and former prisoners of war, will be present. The event includes floral tributes, a two-minute silence, and a flypast by the Red Arrows and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. (The Guardian, Reuters)
Stories from the “Forgotten Army” and Nationwide Tributes
Today’s commemorations also honour the “Forgotten Army”, those who served in harsh conditions across South Asia and the Far East. Many of these veterans are centenarians, and some reflect this may be their final VJ Day tribute. Across the UK, public buildings such as Buckingham Palace, London landmarks, and local memorials, will be lit up in the evening as a mark of respect. (The Sun (IE), The Sun (UK), Reuters)
A Reflection Across Generations
King Charles told the nation that the service and sacrifice of VJ Day heroes “shall never be forgotten.” In his address, he highlighted that true victory lies not just in arms, but in unity “the greatest weapons of all are not the arms you bear but the arms you link.” (The Times, ITV, The Guardian)
Royal Family Outreach and Final Tributes
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, met with 105-year-old veteran James “Jim” Wren ahead of today’s commemorations, capturing the personal legacy of World War II service. Other royals, including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, will attend concurrent services in Scotland and East Anglia. (People, Marie Claire)
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