80 years since VJ Day—King Charles hints at a different kind of remembrance
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King Charles is preparing to speak to the Commonwealth in a moment that will echo through history.
His words will come on the 80th anniversary of a day that ended the Second World War in the Pacific.
And just like his grandfather before him, the monarch’s message will carry the weight of a world once at war.
The King’s address will be pre-recorded and mark Victory in Japan (VJ) Day, known in Australia as Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day.
Observed on 15 August, the date signifies Japan’s surrender in 1945 and the conclusion of the war in the Pacific theatre.
It was on that very day, 15 August 1945, that King George VI addressed the world with a message of relief and resolve.
‘Japan has surrendered, so let us join in thanking Almighty God that war has ended throughout the world, and that in every country men may now turn their industry, skill, and science to repairing its frightful devastation and to building prosperity and happiness,’ King George VI said.
‘Our sense of deliverance is overpowering, and with it all, we have a right to feel that we have done our duty.
‘I ask you again at this solemn hour to remember all who have laid down their lives, and all who have endured the loss of those they love.’
Buckingham Palace confirmed a program of royal engagements to accompany the anniversary.
King Charles and Queen Camilla would attend the Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, followed by a reception with surviving Second World War veterans.
Meanwhile, The Duchess of Edinburgh would meet veteran Jim Wren, who had served on HMS Repulse before being captured and held on Sumatra.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were scheduled to attend a service at the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle.
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester would join the Far East Prisoners of War VJ Day 80th Anniversary Service at Norwich Cathedral.
They would also attend a commemorative service in Suffolk dedicated to the children and families of Far East Prisoners of War.
These tributes followed earlier celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May—when Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender was recognised across Europe.
Commemorative events are meant to unite communities, yet sometimes they become flashpoints for tension and controversy.
In recent months, one such moment unfolded during a solemn ANZAC Day service.
It serves as a reminder that even the most respectful traditions can face unexpected challenges.
Read more: Boos spark outrage during Welcome to Country at Dawn Service
Eighty years on, the voices of those who remember still echo—reminding the world of the price of peace.
His words will come on the 80th anniversary of a day that ended the Second World War in the Pacific.
And just like his grandfather before him, the monarch’s message will carry the weight of a world once at war.
The King’s address will be pre-recorded and mark Victory in Japan (VJ) Day, known in Australia as Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day.
Observed on 15 August, the date signifies Japan’s surrender in 1945 and the conclusion of the war in the Pacific theatre.
It was on that very day, 15 August 1945, that King George VI addressed the world with a message of relief and resolve.
King Charles to mark VJ Day anniversary. Image source: Instagram/theroyalfamily
‘Japan has surrendered, so let us join in thanking Almighty God that war has ended throughout the world, and that in every country men may now turn their industry, skill, and science to repairing its frightful devastation and to building prosperity and happiness,’ King George VI said.
‘Our sense of deliverance is overpowering, and with it all, we have a right to feel that we have done our duty.
‘I ask you again at this solemn hour to remember all who have laid down their lives, and all who have endured the loss of those they love.’
Buckingham Palace confirmed a program of royal engagements to accompany the anniversary.
King Charles and Queen Camilla would attend the Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, followed by a reception with surviving Second World War veterans.
Meanwhile, The Duchess of Edinburgh would meet veteran Jim Wren, who had served on HMS Repulse before being captured and held on Sumatra.
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were scheduled to attend a service at the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle.
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester would join the Far East Prisoners of War VJ Day 80th Anniversary Service at Norwich Cathedral.
They would also attend a commemorative service in Suffolk dedicated to the children and families of Far East Prisoners of War.
These tributes followed earlier celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May—when Nazi Germany’s unconditional surrender was recognised across Europe.
Commemorative events are meant to unite communities, yet sometimes they become flashpoints for tension and controversy.
In recent months, one such moment unfolded during a solemn ANZAC Day service.
It serves as a reminder that even the most respectful traditions can face unexpected challenges.
Read more: Boos spark outrage during Welcome to Country at Dawn Service
Eighty years on, the voices of those who remember still echo—reminding the world of the price of peace.
