The King and Queen were visibly emotional during a service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire marking 80 years since Victory over Japan Day. The ceremony paid tribute to those who fought and died in the Far East and Pacific, often referred to as the 'Forgotten War'. It included flypasts, a two-minute silence, and testimony from veterans.
Captain Yavar Abbas of the 11th Sikh Regiment went off script to salute the King, acknowledging his attendance despite undergoing cancer treatment. Abbas said: 'I salute him for attending this occasion. By his presence here he has gone a long way to make sure that his Grandad’s 14th army is never given the sobriquet of the forgotten army.' The King stood and clasped hands with the veteran, exchanging salutes.
Queen Camilla's eyes were red from crying during the service, which featured readings from former prisoners of war recounting their harrowing experiences. The King also appeared to wipe away a tear. The service concluded with a performance by violinist Jennifer Pike and a flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
After the ceremony, the King and Queen spent nearly an hour at a reception for veterans and their families, moving between tables and speaking with attendees.
