Today we commemorate the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, marking the surrender of Japan and signalling the end of WWII.
While many know of the tragedies and sacrifices of the war in Europe, less is taught or understood about the war in Asia, which claimed the lives of 71,000 British soldiers, and affecting many many more. They fought not only enemy soldiers, but also harsh conditions including monsoon rains, difficult terrain, tropical heat and diseases such as malaria, which had lasting affects on many, including my grandfather.
I was proud today to attend the flag raising in commemoration of VJ Day at the Runnymede Civic Offices, and take part in a debate in Parliament before the summer recess, paying my respect to all those who served and sacrificed in the far east, and their families.
Many never spoke of what they experienced, and the distance meant much of what took place was not reported on at the time - leading some to call our forces there the forgotten army. But their sacrifice must never be forgotten.