Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 15, 2025 · Entertainment

Royal Tribute: Prince William and Kate Honor VJ Day Heroes

The Prince and Princess of Wales have shared a powerful message to social media to mark VJ Day (pictured at a service of thanksgiving for VE Day in May)

THE ROYAL FAMILY HONORS THE UNSUNG HEROES OF VJ DAY

In a heartwarming display of unity and respect, Prince William and Princess Kate have joined forces with King Charles to pay tribute to the brave men and women who fought in the Pacific and Far East during World War II. The royal family's poignant message on social media marks the 80th anniversary of VJ Day (Victory over Japan), a day that brought an end to the six-year conflict.

The Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, shared a powerful message on their social media channels, praising the "courage, sacrifice, and resilience" of those who served in the war. Their heartfelt words read: "Today, on the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, we remember the courage, sacrifice and resilience of all who served. Today we especially think of those British and Commonwealth troops who fought in the Asia-Pacific. We owe an enduring debt to the generation who gave so much, and to whom we will always be grateful. Lest we forget. W & C".

William and Kate, both 43, this morning praised the 'courage, sacrifice, and resilience' of those who fought in the Pacific and Far East

Their message came just hours after King Charles delivered a moving audio address to the nation, echoing the sentiments of his grandfather, King George VI, who broadcast a similar message 80 years ago. In a poignant reference to the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, King Charles described the "immense price" paid by Japanese citizens as one that "we pray no nation need ever pay again". He also hailed the "courage and camaraderie" of heroes who fought in the Pacific and Far East during "humanity's darkest hour".

The King's words were a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of war, which saw over 90,000 British troops injured or killed in action, with nearly 30,000 losing their lives. The atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki led to the deaths of over 200,000 people, many of whom succumbed to radiation sickness.

In a poignant tribute, King Charles will lead national commemorations at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire today, accompanied by Queen Camilla. They will lay wreaths at the Armed Forces Memorial, observe a two-minute silence, and watch a flypast from the RAF Red Arrows. Later, they will meet with 30 surviving veterans who served in the Pacific and Indian Ocean territories.

Their message came just hours after King Charles told the nation how the sacrifice of the heroes of VJ Day will never be forgotten

The royal family's tribute to the heroes of VJ Day comes as concerns about nuclear conflict continue to grow globally. King Charles's mention of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki marked a rare reference by a British monarch to the suffering caused by nuclear warfare. His words were a powerful reminder that "war's true cost extends beyond battlefields, touching every aspect of life".

The 80th anniversary of VJ Day also marks an opportunity for reflection on the significant contributions made by British and Commonwealth troops during World War II. The war saw over 365,000 British and 1.5 million Commonwealth troops deployed across Asia and the Pacific, with many facing unimaginable hardships and suffering.

In his address, King Charles paid tribute to his great uncle, Earl Mountbatten, who oversaw the defeat of the Japanese offensive towards India as Supreme Allied Commander South East Asia Command. He recalled how Lord Mountbatten taught him about the "horrors and heroism" of the conflict, which had a profound impact on the lives of those involved.

The Prince and Princess of Wales during the concert celebrating the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, held at the historic Horse Guards Parade in central London in May

The King's words were a poignant reminder that the sacrifices made by those who fought in World War II continue to shape our world today. As he said: "The war in South East Asia had reached its climax under the leadership of my great uncle, Lord Mountbatten... The forces aligned under him comprised over one million men and women, drawn from many different countries, religions and communities, but united by common purpose and indomitable spirit."

Their Majesties' tribute to the heroes of VJ Day serves as a powerful reminder that their courage, sacrifice, and resilience continue to inspire us today. As they said: "Lest we forget".

Sources:

King George VI, Queen Elizabeth and their daughters Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret wave to crowds from the Buckingham Palace balcony on VJ Day, August 15, 1945

  • [The Scholarly Note] - Exclusive Royal Correspondent

Huge crowds celebrating Victory in Japan on August 15, 1945 in Albert Square, Manchester

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