King Charles Commemorates 80 Years Since VJ Day with National Address

King Charles III delivered a poignant audio address to the nation today, marking the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, which commemorates the end of the Second World War in the Pacific on August 15, 1945. In his message, the King emphasized the enduring legacy of those who served and sacrificed their lives, ensuring their contributions will never be forgotten.

Reflecting on historical significance, the King recalled his grandfather, King George VI, who announced the end of the war with the words, “The war is over.” He noted how these four words resonated deeply, bringing relief and sorrow simultaneously for those who had lost loved ones.

“In this spirit of commemoration and celebration, we honour anew all those whose service and sacrifice saw the forces of liberty prevail,” King Charles stated. He highlighted the leadership of his great uncle, Lord Mountbatten, who played a crucial role in the war’s final stages in Southeast Asia. The King acknowledged the diverse forces under Mountbatten’s command, comprising over one million individuals from various nations and backgrounds, united by a common purpose.

The King further noted the bravery exhibited by the Allied forces, including ground troops often referred to as “the Forgotten Army.” He expressed gratitude for their sacrifices, stating, “It has been my privilege to reassure the remaining veterans that they and their fallen comrades shall never be forgotten.”

In his address, he also paid tribute to the Allied pilots who displayed extraordinary courage, flying missions despite the dangers posed by enemy fire and challenging weather conditions. The suffering endured by prisoners of war, as well as the hardships faced by civilian populations in occupied territories, were not overlooked.

“Their experience reminds us that war’s true cost extends beyond battlefields,” he said, linking the historical suffering to the conflicts faced in the world today.

The King took a moment to reflect on the catastrophic impact of atomic bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, urging that such a price should never again be paid by any nation. He underscored the importance of the lessons learned from VJ Day, emphasizing the need to protect the freedom won through collective sacrifice.

“Countries and communities that had never before fought together learned to coordinate their efforts across vast distances, faiths, and cultural divides,” he explained, noting that true strength lies in unity.

As he concluded his address, King Charles III urged listeners to honour the values bequeathed by those who served. He invoked the epitaph found in the Commonwealth War Graves cemetery at Kohima, reminding all of the importance of remembering the past and guarding the future: “When You Go Home, Tell Them Of Us And Say, For Your Tomorrow, We Gave Our Today.”

This address not only serves as a commemoration of the past but also as a call to action for future generations to uphold the spirit of courage and unity in the face of adversity.