Prince Philip had a distinguished record in the Pacific campaign, where he was second-in-command on the destroyer HMS Whelp. He experienced history as it was being made. Japanese officials signed the unconditional surrender on the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay, officially ending one of the most destructive wars in human history. There were no louder champions than his contributions, made with characteristic quiet humility, and his impact will remain with those that knew him.
Read Harry’s full letter, addressed to the “Forgotten Army,” to appreciate just how special this anniversary is. He acknowledged the respect earned and lives lost during the conflict, stating, “Today, as both our nations mark this anniversary, we acknowledge the respect earned, the lives lost and the enduring friendship that has since taken root.”
The intent of our letter was to underscore Prince Philip’s lasting legacy. It made a special mention for his capacity to talk about his experiences in war with profound respect for everyone that was with him. Harry wrote, “You faced an enemy determined to the last, fought in unforgiving terrain, and endured months, even years, far from home, in conditions most could scarcely imagine.” This feeling highlights the profound emotional reverence Harry has for his grandfather’s pilgrimage through such a defining time in history.
Prince Harry is currently residing in his new home of Montecito, California. So he determined to drop off his tribute discreetly, so as not to overshadow the official service which was attended by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. This decision further underlines his intention to pay tribute to Prince Philip whilst not detracting from the importance of VJ Day.
Harry further expressed his feelings regarding the historical significance of the day, saying, “On this 80th anniversary of VJ Day, we pause to remember the day the guns finally fell silent across the world, the true end of the Second World War.” The letter itself, we found, conveyed his personal reflections in an incredibly powerful way. It also acknowledged the larger price paid everywhere on the homefront during that war.
