LONDON, Aug. 14 (Xinhua) -- A World War II memorial in London to commemorate the troops fighting the Japanese in Myanmar has been granted Grade II listing by the British government.
The honor, announced by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), has been made to mark the 75th anniversary of Victory over Japan Day (VJ Day), which falls on Aug. 15
The monument in the Victoria Embankment Gardens in central London remembers the role of what was known as the Chindit Special Forces who fought Japanese enemy forces in Asia.
Named after Chinthe, a mythical beast which stands guard outside temples in Myanmar, the Chindit Special Forces consisted of troops forces of Britain, Myanmar, Hong Kong, India, Nepal, West Africa and the United States.
Historic England said the memorial in London serves as permanent testament to the Chindit Special Forces, who fought on the first and second expeditions into Myanmar in 1943 and 1944 during the World War II.
Minister for Sport, Tourism and Heritage Nigel Huddleston said: "As we come together this weekend to mark 75 years since VJ Day, we must not forget the sacrifices of the Second World War generation. It is a fitting tribute to all who served in the Far East that we are protecting and preserving sites so that future generations can learn about this important period of our history."
A ceremony will take place at the Chindit Memorial on Saturday as part of commemorations honoring the men who served in the Far East during the World War II. Enditem
