VJ Day 80 Commemoration ~ UK Armed Forces lead commemorations for those who served and sacrificed in the Far East campaign.
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Press Release, Whitehall, 15 August 2025: The UK Armed Forces marked the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ Day) with a solemn and reflective service held at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, hosted by the Royal British Legion.
The event was attended by Their Majesties The King and Queen, around 30 veterans of the Far East campaign, and representatives from across the Commonwealth. The commemoration honoured the bravery and sacrifice of those who served during the Far East campaign of the Second World War in Asia and the Pacific. The service recognised the diverse backgrounds – from India, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, and beyond – that contributed to the allied victory. The event included music by The Bands of HMS Royal Marines Portsmouth and Collingwood, The Bands of The Welsh Guards and The Scots Guards, The Duchess of Edinburgh’s String Orchestra and The Central Band of the Royal Air Force.
The King and Queen were welcomed to the ceremony by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin. They laid wreaths together in front of the Armed Forces Memorial.
The ceremony began with the nation observing a two-minute silence, a powerful moment of reflection broadcast live on BBC One.
The service featured a guard of honour made up of men and women drawn from the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force. The veterans in attendance included recipients of the Burma Star, veterans involved in the Battles of Kohima and Imphal and Far East prisoners of war.
The Red Arrows flew over the ceremony in a celebration of peace and a tribute to the veterans, showcasing the speed, agility and precision of today’s Royal Air Force. Later in the proceedings a flypast by The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, featuring a Lancaster, Spitfire, and Hurricane, soared overhead, symbolising resilience and hope.
The ceremony was also attended by Secretary of State for Defence John Healey MP and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton.
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