Palace reveals new King Charles portrait to mark Armed Forces Day
The palace has unveiled a new photo portrait of the King in military uniform to mark Armed Forces Day.
The portrait of Charles III was taken by photographer Hugo Burnand in Windsor Castle’s Grand Corridor in November.
In it the monarch wears his Field Marshal No1 Full Ceremonial Frock Coat with medals, sword and decorations.
A video message from the Queen was also released to mark the day, which is held each year on the last Saturday of June.
Camilla described servicemen and women as a ‘source of inspiration, reassurance and pride’ for the nation.
She praised the efforts of a military facing ‘challenges and dangers’ that not only safeguard the UK ‘but also defend liberties way beyond these shores’.
She also spoke of herself as a ‘proud daughter of an Army officer’ and wore her Royal Lancers brooch – her late father’s regiment and the military unit she serves as Colonel in Chief.
Earlier this month, on June 6, the King and Queen joined world leaders on the beaches of Normandy to mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings during World War II.
In her video message she paid tribute to the ‘incredible bravery’ of the forces that liberated Europe from Hitler’s regime.
She added: ‘Eight decades later, I know that same spirit and those same qualities remain much in evidence throughout our Armed Forces, as you undertake your duties in the face of a multitude of challenges and dangers.’
The message was recorded in Clarence House’s morning room, where a picture of the Queen’s parents on their wedding day in 1946 could be seen.
In the photo, her mother, then Rosalind Cubitt, poses with her father Major Bruce Shand outside St Paul’s Church in Knightsbridge, London.
Major Shand served with the 12th Lancers during the Second World War and was awarded the Military Cross in 1940, during the retreat to Dunkirk, and again in 1942 for his efforts in North Africa, and was later wounded and taken prisoner while fighting in same region. He died in June 2006 at the age of 89.
What is Armed Forces Day?
Armed Forces Day is held each year to show support for all the people who make up the Armed Forces community.
This includes currently serving personnel, service families, veterans and cadets.
What is happening on Armed Forces Day?
There are several events happening across the country today to mark Armed Forces Day.
These include parades, military vehicle displays, music, talks, family fun and much more. You can see all the events here.
The day also marks the culmination of a week of celebrations, which began on Monday.
Did King Charles serve in the military?
Yes, as Prince, King Charles III served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy.
You can read more about his time in the military and the medals he wears here.
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