The Duke of Edinburgh joined commemorations for Anzac Day in London.
The event serves as a national day of remembrance for both Australia and New Zealand and marks the anniversary of the start of the First World War Gallipoli landings.
The Duke joined the dawn service at London’s New Zealand Memorial. Following the service, he attended a Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey and a wreath laying ceremony on The King’s behalf at the Cenotaph.
To finish the day, he attended the annual Gallipoli Association wreath laying ceremony in the Crypt at St Paul’s Cathedral. He has taken on the patronage of the association, a role formerly held by his father, Prince Philip.
This year marked the first time Prince Edward has attended any of the memorials as the events are typically attended by other senior royals. The Duke is taking on an increasing number of high profile engagements as a senior member of the family amidst this year’s health challenges for The King and the Princess of Wales.
Recently, The King awarded the Duke the Order of the Thistle in honour of his 60th birthday. The Order is the greatest order of chivalry in Scotland. It’s made up of the sovereign, and sixteen knights and ladies. In addition to The Order, he was also given the title of Colonel of the Scots Guard.
