UK King Charles sends urgent warning in 80th anniversary address

[CharlieH]

On VJ Day's 80th anniversary, King Charles delivered a heartfelt message urging everyone to remember the sacrifices of veterans who gave "more than freedom." The 76-year-old monarch highlighted the profound devastation caused by the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings, expressing hope that such tragedies never occur again.

 

In a poignant audio message to the UK, realms, and Commonwealth, the King painted a stark picture of the hardship endured by allied prisoners of war. He described their years of brutal captivity, plagued by starvation, disease, and cruelty that pushed human endurance to its limits, leaving lasting mental and physical scars.

 

King Charles vowed that the service and sacrifice of VJ Day heroes "shall never be forgotten." Addressing their families and the now "sadly dwindling band of veterans," he assured them that their courage and camaraderie during humanity's darkest hour remain an eternal flame. This flame, he said, serves as a beacon that honors the past and guides the future.

 

Today, the King and Queen, alongside senior politicians, will gather to mark this poignant anniversary. Their presence reinforces the enduring message of remembrance and gratitude for those who fought for freedom, ensuring their legacy continues to blaze brightly for generations to come.

 

Keir Starmer's message

The build-up to today’s commemorations has included a week of events honouring VJ Day veterans.

On Thursday, the Prime Minister hosted a reception for veterans in Downing Street.

A sunset wreath-laying at the Memorial Gates in London honoured Commonwealth personnel, while dawn saw military pipers play the lament ‘Battle’s O’er’ at key memorial sites.

Starmer said: "Eighty years since our victory in the Second World War, we pay our respects to the many who fought, were captured, and made the ultimate sacrifice in the Far East.

"Our country owes a great debt to those who fought for a better future, so we could have the freedoms and the life we enjoy today.

"We must honour that sacrifice with every new generation."

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-08-15