The Queen has given a personal address to mark national Armed Forces Day.
Her Majesty spoke of her pride in the military and of the gratitude felt for those who serve their country.
Queen Camilla also had warm words for the families who support the Armed Forces around the UK and on their overseas postings.
The address was given from Clarence House and was recorded and broadcast by the British Forces Broadcasting Service of which Queen Camilla is patron.
The Queen told the Armed Forces that ”your determination, unrelenting efforts and selfless loyalty to each other and the United Kingdom are as enduring as our gratitude.”
Queen Camilla also had a message for the families that support military personnel, noting that ‘‘as the proud daughter of an Army officer, I know something of the impact military life has on your loved ones – you too are heroes.”
The Queen spoke in front of a photo of her father, Major Bruce Shand, who served with the 12th Lancers during World War Two. She also wore her Royal Lancers brooch in a nod to her father and in recognition of her role as Colonel-in-Chief of the regiment.
At Her Majesty’s side were her father’s medals including his two Military Crosses – he was recognised for his efforts at Dunkirk in 1940 and in North Africa in 1942.
A portrait of The King in naval uniform was also shown during the broadcast.
Armed Forces Day was established in 2006 to mark the efforts of military personnel. Queen Elizabeth II often used to release messages for the day but this is the first time that Queen Camilla has spoken in such a personal way.
