To mark Armed Forces Day, a new portrait of King Charles wearing his ceremonial Field Marshal’s uniform has been released. The photograph was taken by regular royal photographer Hugo Burnand in the Grand Corridor of Windsor Castle. The image shows the seated monarch adorned with decorations, medals, and swords, an impressive sight. This year, Queen Camilla paid tribute to the armed forces, describing them as a “source of inspiration, reassurance and pride” in her video message. Armed Forces Day is observed on the final Saturday in June to honor veterans, military personnel and service families.
King Charles was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal while Queen Elizabeth II was still alive. As he became the monarch, he became the ceremonial head of the entire armed forces. Earlier this month, during his D-Day commemoration in Normandy, France, the king wore a tan version of the same uniform. The Field Marshal is the highest rank in the British Army.
In her video message, recorded at Clarence House, Queen Camilla praised the “incredible bravery” of the armed forces who liberated Europe from Nazi Germany 80 years ago. “The same spirit and those same qualities remain much in evidence throughout our Armed Forces,” she added. The Queen thanked the British Forces Broadcasting Service charity and the families of the service personnel who keep the home fires burning while their loved ones are away. She also paid tribute to her own father, Major Bruce Shand, and his role in World War Two.
The armed forces of the United Kingdom support and strengthen the nation “In times of war and in times of peace, whether seen or unseen,” the Queen said. “You are a source of inspiration, reassurance, and pride – and I salute you all.” The message was significant and timely as the world battles the COVID-19 pandemic, and the armed forces of many countries are being mobilized to offer support. The UK Armed Forces have contributed enormously to combating the Coronavirus pandemic and earned the admiration of the nation. The release of the portrait of King Charles wearing his Field Marshal’s uniform is a fitting tribute to the Armed Forces
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