Victory over Japan Day marks the end of the Second World War in the Pacific and remains a key date in Britain’s calendar of remembrance. The 80th anniversary drew senior members of the royal family to services across the country, from Staffordshire to Scotland. While King Charles, Queen Camilla and other working royals took part in public commemorations, the Prince and Princess of Wales were absent. Instead, they released a written tribute on social media. Their decision has reignited public debate about their role and commitment.
Royal Family Marks the 80th Anniversary of VJ Day
King Charles and Queen Camilla led the main Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. The event, hosted by the Royal British Legion, included a two-minute silence and aerial displays honouring the veterans who fought in the Asia-Pacific theatre.
King Charles and Queen Camilla arrive at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire to pay tribute to veterans alongside Sir Keir Starmer on the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, which marked the end of the Second World War. pic.twitter.com/OvznOLuiCJ
— GB News (@GBNEWS) August 15, 2025
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh attended a service at Edinburgh Castle, while the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester joined the Far East Prisoners of War memorial at Norwich Cathedral. Coverage in outlets like Tatler singled out Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, for her dedication. They emphasise her busy schedule at home and abroad. This high-profile participation highlighted the absence of the Waleses.
Related | Prince Harry Pays Tribute to the Forgotten Army on the 80th Anniversary of VJ Day
Social Media Message Sparks Backlash
The official Kensington Palace account posted a message on X remembering the “courage, sacrifice, and resilience” of British and Commonwealth troops. One must question whether veterans, most most now aged in their late 90s to early 100s, would see that message, as few, if any, are likely active on X.
Royal reporters quickly noted that the couple were not scheduled to attend any public events. Their absence drew sharp criticism online, with some users accusing them of avoiding duties. Memes and commentary circulated, pointing to what critics see as a pattern of conveniently timed non-appearances. The tone of the reaction was amplified by the visibility of other royals paying their respects in person.
Final Thoughts
In the days before the anniversary, multiple outlets reported that William and Kate had taken a private holiday in Greece. They were joined by their children and Kate’s parents. According to unverified reports circulating in Greek media and other outlets such as The Mercury News, the trip included travel on a private jet and time spent on a superyacht around Kefalonia. The reports prompted accusations of hypocrisy from commentators. Many recalled past criticism directed at Harry and Meghan for similar travel choices.
The timing of the holiday, paired with their absence from such a significant memorial event, added fuel to ongoing debates about their work ethic and public image.
The 80th anniversary of VJ Day offered the royal family a chance to present a united front in honour of veterans. Senior figures were highly visible at commemorations. The Prince and Princess of Wales, however, opted for a low-profile approach, sparking renewed scrutiny.
Some commentators point to a perceived pattern. They cite past events where the couple appeared most active when the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were making headlines. Critics argue that, had Harry and Meghan still been working royals or announced something significant today, the Wales might have made a public appearance. In their view, such timing can seem less about duty and more about strategic positioning.
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Will and Kate are busy raising a young family and going taking them holidays, to broaden their hozirons. How dare the taxpayers who fund them expect them to do any “work” 😆