Remember all who have laid down their lives, and all who have endured the loss of those they love

King to echo his grandfather's VJ Day message to nation

- BY RUSSELL MYERS

THE King will echo the words of his grandfather when he addresses the nation to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VJ Day next Friday, August 15.

King George VI was on the throne when Allied forces celebrated victory over Japan and therefore the end of the World War II in 1945.

And now his grandson will pay tribute to nearly 30,000 British troops who perished in Asia and the Pacific region for our freedom.

King Charles will deliver an audio address, to be released by Buckingham Palace, next Friday morning.

Sources say the King wrote the statement himself, as he is keen to recognise the "duty and sacrifice of our greatest generation".

Three months ago, on May 8, Charles led the VE Day commemorations marking 80 years since Allied victory was declared in Europe.

On August 15, 1945, George VI heralded the beginning of a new era for Britain and Europe in his speech.