A new photographic portrait of King Charles in full military regalia was released on Saturday to mark Britain’s Armed Forces Day.
Armed Forces Day falls on the final Saturday in June. It aims to pay homage to veterans, military personnel and service families.
The photograph taken in the Grand Corridor of Windsor Castle shows the 75 year old monarch wearing his Field Marshal No 1 Full Ceremonial Frock Coat with medals, sword and decorations.
The image of King Charles was taken last November by Hugo Burnand – a regular royal photographer. He had also taken the official pictures of the King’s coronation in 2023.
The release of the photograph coincided with a video message to members of the armed services from Queen Camilla. She called them “a source of inspiration, reassurance and pride.”
In the video released by Buckingham Palace today, Queen Camilla is seen thanking veterans, serving members of the Armed Forces and their families. she also paid tribute to the military for ‘everything you do to protect this country of ours’.
On Armed Forces Day last year which was the King’s first as Commander-in-Chief, he wrote a letter paying tribute to the ‘selfless service and sacrifice’ of British troops.
The King, who is Commander-in-Chief of the armed services, returned to public engagements early last month after being diagnosed with cancer in February. The King resumed his public duties by visiting cancer patients. Queen Camilla accompanied him.
Despite his challenging health, the King has remained optimistic and is determined not to let cancer slow him down.
Earlier this week, senior members of the royal family, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince William warmly welcomed Empress Naruhito and Empress Masako at Buckingham Palace with an opulent dinner.
On the first anniversary of the King’s coronation on May 6, a survey pointed to a significant rise in his popularity.
(With Inputs From Reuters)
