Duchess of Edinburgh to meet 105-year-old veteran in very special engagement

The Duchess of Edinburgh will pay a special visit to Jim Wren – a 105-year-old Royal Marines veteran – at his home in Salisbury next week ahead of the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

Sophie, who is Patron of The Java Far East Prisoner of War Club 1942, will visit Mr Wren at his care home in Wiltshire.

Mr Wren, who survived the sinking of HMS Repulse in 1941, was subsequently held as a prisoner of war for three and a half years after being captured during an escape attempt from Singapore in February 1942. His extraordinary story embodies the courage and resilience of those who served in the Far East campaign during the Second World War.

During her visit to the care home, the Duchess will share a cup of tea with Mr Wren and his family, offering an opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of his wartime experiences. Following this, she will join a seated exercise class to meet other residents, highlighting the importance of wellbeing and community support among older veterans and care home residents.

As Patron of The Java Far East Prisoner of War Club 1942, The Duchess’s visit underscores the continued commitment of the Royal Family to honouring the sacrifices made by those who endured the harsh conditions of Far East imprisonment and conflict.

The Duchess’s engagement forms part of a wider programme of royal commemorations for the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

His Majesty The King and Queen will attend a national Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum, followed by a reception for veterans.

Meanwhile, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh will participate in a service at the Scottish National War Memorial in Edinburgh, and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester will attend commemorative services in Norwich and Suffolk dedicated to Far East Prisoners of War and their families.