VJ Day 80: Veterans fear significance of anniversary is 'fading' as Britain remembers bravery and sacrifice of armed forces
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A veteran said it is 'vital' that we still remember the Pacific Theatre and those who died in it
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Veterans have expressed fears to GB News that the significance of VJ Day is "fading" as Britain prepares to honour the bravery and sacrifice made by the armed forces during the last great war.
Friday will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day, when Japanese forces surrendered following the dropping of two atomic bombs on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
However, one veteran told the People's Channel that he is concerned Britons are forgetting the importance of the day.
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Founder of Veterans for Veterans and former Grenadier Guard who served in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan, Paul Doyle, told GB News why it is "vital we remember the sacrifices made in the Far East".
Doyle said: "VJ Day marked the true end of the Second World War - the Far East campaign was often overlooked and known as the Forgotten War.
"Recognising VJ Day ensures those who served there get the tribute they deserve and reminds us of the global nature of the war."
The battle within the Pacific saw approximately 30,000 British troops die against Japan, and around 111,600 US troops in the war.
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VJ Day celebrations in London 80 years ago
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Doyle warned that "awareness is fading" and there needs to be more engagement brought to the event.
He told GB News: "We need more coverage in schools, the media, and national commemorations sharing veterans' stories.
"Future generations need to truly understand its significance and the hardships, in particular the prisoners of war and civilian populations who suffered at the hands of the Japanese soldiers."
It is estimated that 19 to 25 million civilians died in the Pacific Theatre, with nearly 250,000 being killed by the atomic bombs.
The Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster will be flown for VJ Day 80
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The UK and other Commonwealth nations are preparing to mark the day with flypasts and ceremonies across the country.
Due to take place on August 15, flypasts will take place at the Royal British Legion's national commemorative event at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire.
In the capital, a sunset ceremony and light show will recognise the contribution from the Commonwealth to the Second World War.
On the dawn of the day, military bagpipers will perform the Battle's O'er at The Cenotaph, being followed by The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight's Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster.
Around 400 members of the Armed Forces will pay tribute to Second World War veterans at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire.
Defence Secretary John Healey said: "The bravery and sacrifice of the United Kingdom and Commonwealth Armed Forces during the Second World War continue to inspire us today.
"The nation will come together on the 80th anniversary of VJ Day to thank those who served and remember those who died.
"Our UK Armed Forces today continue the legacy of the Greatest Generation, protecting the peace they secured through their courage and commitment across the world."