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ITV News
3 days ago
- ITV News
Burma veteran James Fenton's 200-mile journey to pay his respects alongside King Charles for VJ Day
James Fenton's 200-mile journey from the Isle of Man to the National Memorial Arboretum One of the last remaining Burma veterans has travelled more than 200 miles to pay his respects to mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day. At his peaceful home on the Isle of Man, James Fenton received an invitation to attend the national commemorations at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. However, at 103-years-old James rarely leaves the Isle of Man, but it was an offer he couldn't refuse - leading to an unforgettable journey. It began on Wednesday, two days before the 80th anniversary commemorations on 15 August. James was busy packing for the journey, looking ahead at what was to come. He said: "As time has gone on, I've got more and more excited. "I'm hoping that I'm going to see some other veterans - there can't be many!" James fought in what many describe as 'The Forgotten Army'. Deployed in Burma at the age of 20, where he fought with the 178 Field Regiment of the Royal Artillery. The following day James arrived at Ronaldsway Airport, ready to fly to Birmingham. He was accompanied by his carer Sheila Healey, who has been dedicated to looking after veterans on the Isle of Man for many years. She lost her uncle Pte James Owen during WWII who fought in the Burma campaign, believed to be killed in action during the Battle of Imphal in May 1944, aged 23. Both James and Sheila received special treatment through Ronaldsway Airport and onto the plane, before listening to a personal message from the pilot as they boarded. Speaking the passengers, the captain said: "We are joined by Burma veteran James Fenton. It's an honour to be a part of your journey to the memorial James, and thank you for your service". Once in Birmingham, James travelled to his hotel, ahead of the special commemoration the next day. On Friday 15 August 33 veterans aged from 96 to 105 who served in the Far East and Pacific, gathered at the National Memorial Arboretum. A commemoration marking 80 years since Victory over Japan, or VJ Day, that will likely be one of the final major gatherings of veterans from the conflicts. Also in attendance was His Majesty King Charles and Queen Camilla, giving James the opportunity to meet with both. Speaking with the King after the service, James invited the monarch to visit the Isle of Man, while also handing him a Manx pin badge, which he took away with him. He told the monarch: "It's an invitation hoping that you will come, in the very near future, and visit our island. And we would most be welcoming Sir.' The King replied: "I must try". James also spoke with the Queen during the outdoor ceremony, followed by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer who was also in attendance. The event included a guard of honour from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, with music provided by military bands. A Battle of Britain Memorial Flight led a flypast featuring the historic Dakota, Hurricane and Spitfire aircraft, followed by a national two-minute silence held at midday. At dawn, military bagpipers performed the lament 'Battle's O'er' at The Cenotaph, in the Far East section of the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, and at Edinburgh Castle. A piper also performed at a Japanese peace garden to reflect the reconciliation which has taken place between the UK and Japan in the decades since the Second World War. James concluded by describing the commemoration as "the most special day of my life", adding that meeting the King and Queen was "wonderful". The 103-year-old finished the day posing for a group photo, showing some of the last few remaining veterans he fought during WWII. Concluding what will likely be one of James' final journeys of remembrance, and rounding off a visit he will never forget.
Time of India
22-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
World War 2 relics found in Imphal West dist
1 2 3 4 Imphal: Several World War 2 relics, believed to be left behind by soldiers involved in the Battle of Imphal in 1944, were found by labourers at Langthabal in Imphal West district on Tuesday morning, officials said. The relics were discovered four feet under the ground by labourers while digging for construction works at Langthabal. A large number of rusted empty cases, water bottles, one grenade, shells, spades, a rusted tin can, and items that are yet to be identified were recovered. Further digging is underway to recover other items, an official said. The relics are believed to be left behind by the Allied Forces, as there was an Allied camp at nearby Canchipur hills during the World War 2 period, another official said. In 1944, forces of Imperial Japan surrounded the hills of Manipur but could not overrun the massive Allied army camps set up in different parts of Imphal valley. The Battle of Imphal, along with the Battle of Kohima involving Imperial Japan, Azad Hind, and Allied Forces comprising British and Indian soldiers, is considered Britain's greatest war by the British National Army museum. The battle was a significant victory for Allied Forces and stopped the Japanese advance to then British India. More than 54,000 Japanese troops were killed or wounded, while more than 12,000 Allied soldiers died or got injured in the Battle of Imphal.
