VJ Day 2020: Queen thanks ‘those who fought so valiantly’ on 75th anniversary of end of WWII
The Queen has delivered a special message expressing her thanks to those “who fought so valiantly” during the Second World War in commemoration of VJ Day.
Saturday 15 August marks the 75th anniversary of VJ Day, otherwise known as Victory in Japan Day.
The event marks the occasion on 15 August 1945 when Japan officially signed its surrender against the Allied forces.
In honour of the occasion, Queen Elizabeth II has delivered a commemorative statement, in which she and the Duke of Edinburgh gave their “grateful thanks” for all those who fought across the Commonwealth.
The monarch said: “Today we mark the 75th anniversary of VJ Day, which brought victory for the Allies and finally marked the end of the Second World War.
“Those of us who remember the conclusion of the Far East campaign, whether on active service overseas, or waiting for news at home, will never forget the jubilant scenes and overwhelming sense of relief.”
The Queen said that “amongst the joy” at the end of the Second World War, which occurred when she was 19 years old, the “terrible devastation” that the war brought and “the cost borne by so many” was also remembered.
“Prince Philip and I join many around the world in sending our grateful thanks to the men and women from across the Commonwealth, and Allied nations, who fought so valiantly to secure the freedoms we cherish today.”
Queen Elizabeth II ended her statement by saying: “May the memory of their sacrifice and bravery remain with us always.”
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