In Conversation with … Andrew Choong Han Lin, Curator, Royal Museums Greenwich
07 Aug 2025
VJ Day: The Royal Navy’s Forgotten War in the Pacific
When we think of the war against Japan, it’s often the United States that takes centre stage. But what was the Royal Navy doing in the Pacific—and why is its role so often overlooked?
In this revealing talk, Andrew Choong Han Lin (Curator of Royal Museums Greenwich) traces the Royal Navy’s journey through one of the lesser-known chapters of the Second World War. From the last British naval bombardment of Japan at Hamamatsu in July 1945, to the dramatic early defeats of 1941–42, and the hard-fought return of British forces to the Pacific, this talk explores the strategic, political, and human dimensions of Britain’s war in the East.
Learn how imperial ambition, naval rivalry, and kamikaze attacks shaped Britain’s presence in the Far East—and how ships like HMS ELECTRA, HMS EXPRESS, and HMS VICTORIOUS played their part in a global conflict that was far from over in Europe.
This is a story of resilience, adaptation, and a Navy that refused to be forgotten.
The evening will be compered by Paul Wright, Interpretation Officer at the Historic Dockyard, and there will be a question and answer session following the conversation.
Our talks are free to attend (you do not need a Dockyard admission ticket) but spaces are limited. Tickets must be booked in advance.
| Date | Thursday 7 August |
| Location | The Mess Deck Restaurant at The Historic Dockyard Chatham |
| Time | Arrival from 5.30pm for a 6pm start. The Mess Deck will be open for drinks and snacks prior to the talk. |
| Cost | Talks are free to attend but we ask that you book in advance. |
