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TRH pay tribute to veterans during VJ Day

14th August 2010

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall paid tribute to the bravery, dedication and sacrifices of those who fought for their country in the Second World War in a commemoration of the 65th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day).

Their Royal Highnesses met and spoke with veterans of the conflict and their families, along with representatives from the three Military Services at a reception hosted by the Burma Star Association, after the service.

The commemoration service celebrated the achievements of the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the Allies in their victory in the Far East, and paid tribute to the 580,406 UK and Commonwealth Forces and 67,073 UK civilians who lost their lives during the Second World War.

Elderly servicemen, many wearing their campaign medals, came together at the Cenotaph at Westminster to remember their comrades who did not come back from the war.

The half-hour remembrance began with prayers, followed by the Last Post and a minute’s silence.

The Prince of Wales laid a wreath at the base of the Cenotaph, as did Prime Minister David Cameron and representatives of the Armed Forces and veterans from Second World War Associations.

After the National Anthem, veterans and Standards of the Second World War Associations marched past the Cenotaph to warm applause from the crowds.

At the reception, Their Royal Highnesses talked with veterans as they were served refreshments.

The Prince of Wales has always held the bravery of those who fought in the Far East in the highest regard. In 2005 as part of the 60th anniversary of VJ Day, The Prince made a speech at a reception in London.

He said: “Yours is such a special generation – stoical, loyal, indefatigable and dutiful. You have been the bedrock of this country for all these years and it will not be the same without you. We salute you with all our hearts.”