Royal remembers those who served

The King and Queen join World War Two veterans at a remembrance service to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

King Charles marks VJ Day service with veterans

King Charles III and Queen Camilla attended a remembrance service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, joining 33 veterans aged 96 to 105 who served in the Far East and Pacific. Wreaths were laid, a RAF Red Arrows flypast followed the two minute silence, and attendees watched films and listened to veterans and civilians recount their experiences. The King released an audio message praising the courage and sacrifice of the veterans.

The ceremony highlighted the ties to the Commonwealth and Allied forces who continued to fight after the war in Europe ended. Veterans from Burma and other fronts shared stories on stage and via film, while a tribute from poet Sir Ben Okri joined readings of civilian memory. A reception after the service gave the King and Queen a chance to meet veterans and their families.

The event shows how the monarchy remains a focal point for national memory, linking living veterans with younger generations through ceremony and story. It also underscores a broader effort to honor the Forgotten Army and to acknowledge civilian suffering alongside battlefield bravery. Yet royal involvement in wartime memory can invite scrutiny from veterans groups and political observers who watch for signs of tone or emphasis in public messaging.

Looking ahead, such ceremonies may shape how communities interpret past wars for a new generation, balancing gratitude with critical reflection on costs and consequences. The presence of Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the event signals a careful intertwining of memory, politics, and public life in a modern constitutional framework.

Highlights

The memory of sacrifice remains a living prompt for leaders today.