Honouring a Hero: James Fenton Travels from the Isle of Man Airport to Birmingham for VJ Day

Published: 19 August 2025

One of the last surviving veterans of the Burma campaign has completed a poignant 200-mile journey from the Isle of Man Airport flying with Loganair to Birmingham to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ) Day at Staffordshire

At 103 years of age, James Fenton rarely leaves the Isle of Man. However, upon receiving a personal invitation to attend the national commemorations at the National Memorial Arboretum, he embarked on a journey that would become one of the most memorable of his life.

James, who served with the 178 Field Regiment of the Royal Artillery during the Second World War, was part of what many refer to as ‘The Forgotten Army’. Deployed to Burma at the age of 20, his service remains a testament to the resilience and sacrifice of those who fought in the Far East.

Pte James Owen (left), Sheila Healey and James Fenton (centre), and James Fenton during Burma campaign (right).Credit: Family photos

Accompanied by his carer Sheila Healey-herself deeply connected to the Burma campaign through the loss of her uncle, Private James Owen, during the Battle of Imphal in 1944-James departed the Isle of man Airport en route to Birmingham.

The journey was marked by heartfelt gestures, including a personal message from the Loganair flight captain acknowledging James’s service and honouring his presence on board.

Upon arrival, James was welcomed into the flight deck to meet the Loganair crew before continuing to his hotel ahead of the commemorative service.

James Fenton was invited into the flight deck to meet the crew.Credit: ITV Granada Reports

On 15 August, James joined 32 other veterans aged between 96 and 105 at the National Memorial Arboretum. The event, attended by His Majesty King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, featured a guard of honour from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, alongside performances from military bands and a flypast by the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

James Fenton met with King Charles and Queen Camilla and Sir Keir Starmer.Credit: ITV Granada Reports

During the ceremony, James personally invited King Charles to visit the Isle of Man, presenting him with a Manx pin badge as a gesture of goodwill. The King responded warmly, saying, “I must try.”

Reflecting on the day, James described the commemoration as “the most special day of my life,” adding that meeting the King and Queen was “wonderful.”