As the UK prepares to reflect on a pivotal moment in world history, King Charles will lead the nation in commemorating the 80th anniversary of VJ Day — the day Japan surrendered, bringing World War II to an end.
Buckingham Palace has confirmed that His Majesty will deliver a heartfelt message to the public, to be broadcast ahead of a national service of remembrance.
A Historic Tribute at the National Memorial Arboretum
On August 15, the King and Queen Camilla will attend a solemn ceremony at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, where they’ll join Second World War veterans, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and other dignitaries.
The event, which will be broadcast live on the BBC, is set to honour those who served in the Asia-Pacific theatre — a part of the war that often receives less attention but was no less brutal.
Attendees will include recipients of the Burma Star, veterans from the British Indian Army, former prisoners of war, and those who fought in decisive battles such as Kohima and Imphal in India.
Floral Tributes and a National Moment of Silence
As part of the commemorations, the King, Queen, and other senior royal and political figures will lay floral tributes in honour of the fallen.
A national two-minute silence will be observed, followed by a dramatic aerial display from the Red Arrows.
The service will conclude with a flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, offering a powerful visual reminder of the airmen who helped change the course of history.
After the ceremony, Charles and Camilla will meet with veterans at a private reception.
Royals Spread Across the UK to Honour the Day
While the King and Queen lead the central event in Staffordshire, other senior royals will be paying tribute in various corners of the UK.
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The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh will attend a special service at the Scottish National War Memorial in Edinburgh Castle, organised by the Royal British Legion Scotland.
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Meanwhile, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester will be in Norwich, participating in a service dedicated to Far East Prisoners of War, before heading to Suffolk for a second ceremony honouring the Children and Families of FEPOWs.
Personal Stories Highlight the Human Cost
In the lead-up to VJ Day, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, is scheduled to meet Jim Wren, a veteran who was captured while serving on HMS Repulse and imprisoned on the island of Sumatra until the war’s end.
His story is one of countless personal sacrifices that will be remembered on this day.
A Season of Reflection Will Close at Windsor Castle
The 80th anniversary commemorations won’t end on August 15.
Later this autumn, the Palace will host a reception at Windsor Castle for World War II veterans, continuing the theme of gratitude and remembrance.
This year’s VJ Day observances aim not only to honour the past but also to ensure future generations remember the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of those who served in one of the most demanding theatres of the Second World War.