VJ 80th Day commemorations take place around the world including Nepal and Brunei
The 80th anniversary of the Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day) was observed in British Embassy Kathmandu along with commemorative services held in the UK and different parts of the world. The VJ Day marks the anniversary when Japan announced its surrender to the Allied forces on 15 August 1945, ending six long years of the Second World War.
VJ Day is a time to remember the sacrifices and bravery of all who served in the Far East, including British Army Gurkhas, who played a significant role in the war against Japan, particularly during the Burma Campaign, which was a major part of the war and involved fierce fighting across difficult terrain. An incredible nine Victoria Crosses were awarded to Gurkhas Regiment personnel for acts of valour in Burma, with seven going to Nepali soldiers.
The service in Kathmandu saw Nepali and foreign dignitaries, British Gurkha veterans and serving Officers and Staff, pay tribute to all those who served in the conflict. As a mark of respect, a two-minute silence was observed at the British Embassy and British Gurkhas Nepal camp conjoining with the national two-minute silence held in the UK. His Majesty’s Ambassador HE Mr Rob Fenn, Lieutenant General Nirmal Kumar Thapa (Vice Chief of Army Staff Nepali Army), Colonel Dan Rex MVO (Defence Attaché, Commander British Gurkhas Nepal (BGN) Director Gurkha Welfare Trust (Nepal)) and Major (Retired) Balkrishna Rana (Chairman Regimental Association Nepal (RAN)), laid the wreaths of tribute at the Gurkha monument.
British Gurkhas Pokhara (BGP) also hosted a poignant parade to mark the anniversary.
A separate tribute featuring bagpipers playing in different parts of the world including BGN Bagpiper Lance Corporal Jit Bahadur Gurung playing in BGN Kathmandu was broadcast live across UK and other world news services.
See the link below.
