It was an honour to join the VJ Day parade and service at Chingford Mount Cemetery yesterday, followed by the commemorations at the Royal British Legion Club, marking the 81st anniversary of the end of the Second World War in the Far East.
VJ Day is an important moment for us to remember the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of all those who served in the Far East. They fought in some of the most appalling conditions imaginable, many endured the brutality of prisoner of war camps, and far too many never returned home.
Their sacrifice must never be forgotten. We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never truly be repaid, and it is our responsibility to ensure that future generations understand what they endured in defence of our freedom.
My sincere thanks to Peter Dawes, Chairman of the Royal British Legion Chingford Branch, and to everyone involved in organising yesterday’s parade and commemorations. I would also like to thank all those at the Branch for the work they do throughout the year in support of our Armed Forces, veterans and their families.
We will remember them. Today and always.
