The Prince of Wales paid touching tribute to his father, King Charles III, at the star-studded Coronation Concert Sunday evening, telling him: “Pa, we are all so proud of you.”
William took to the stage shortly after American superstar Lionel Ritchie wrapped up his performance, and joked with the audience that he wouldn’t “go on all night long,” like the title of one of Ritchie’s greatest hits.
The future king reflected on the legacy of the late Queen Elizabeth II, noting that she said shortly after her own 1953 coronation: “[C]oronations are a declaration of our hopes for the future. And I know she’s up there, fondly keeping an eye on us. She would be a proud mother.”
William also touched upon his father’s dedication to service, saying: “For all that celebrations are magnificent, at the heart of the pageantry is a simple message. Service.
“My father’s first words on entering Westminster Abbey yesterday were a pledge of service. It was a pledge to continue to serve. Because for over 50 years, in every corner of the UK, across the Commonwealth and around the world, he has dedicated himself to serve others, both current and future generations, and those whose memory must not be neglected.”
He also spoke of his father’s 50 years of environmentalism and green initiatives, and his decades-ahead warning of the impact of climate change. “He warned us of the risks to our planet’s health long before it was an everyday issue,” William said.
William said that his father’s most important legacy might just be his dedication to everyday people. “My father has always understood that people of all faiths, all backgrounds, and all communities, deserve to be celebrated and supported.”
Before returning to his seat, William made his own vow of service. “I commit myself to serve you all. King, Country and Commonwealth. God Save The King!”
