Today, as we mark #VJDay, we remember all those who fought for democracy and freedom in the Far East campaign – whose bravery helped bring the Second World War to an end.

Yesterday I spent time with Malcolm from Guisborough, who shared with me the remarkable and moving story of his father, Gunner William Charles Watters. Born in 1914, Charles worked as a labourer before enlisting in the Royal Artillery in 1941. Serving in the 48th Light Anti-Aircraft Regiment, he was deployed to the Far East as the war with Japan escalated. He was part of that formidable force which mastered jungle warfare and fought to liberate South East Asia.

William Charles was captured on Java in 1942 and held as a prisoner of war in camps including Tanjung Priok, Changi and Batu Lintang, Sarawak, until liberation in September 1945. He endured years of deprivation, brutality, and isolation, cut off from his family. While he was imprisoned, his brother was killed, but he would not learn of this until after his release. Back home, his mother had no idea where he was, living with the agony of his “missing in action” status. Malcolm reflected on how, for many who served so far from home, the lack of information meant their sacrifices were scarcely known at the time.

William Charles was awarded the Pacific Star, the War Medal and the 1939-1945 Star, although did not want to accept them. Too often, the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the Far East was overshadowed and forgotten, something he felt strongly about, and Malcolm feels strongly about today.

Today, on VJ Day, we must ensure that stories like these are never forgotten. They were the last to come home, and we owe them our remembrance and our thanks.