On the first anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, King Charles III paid a poignant tribute to the beloved monarch, reflecting on her profound impact on countless lives. In a heartfelt message, the 74-year-old King expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support shown to both him and the late Queen during his first year on the throne.
King Charles stated, “As we mark the first anniversary of Her Late Majesty’s departure and my ascension, we fondly remember her long life of dedicated service and the significant role she played in the hearts of so many. I am profoundly thankful for the love and encouragement extended to my wife and myself as we strive to serve you all.”
To commemorate this somber occasion, the King chose to unveil a portrait of the late Queen during the earlier years of her reign, at the age of 42. This captivating portrait, captured by Sir Cecil Beaton, was taken during an official sitting at Buckingham Palace on October 16, 1968. It portrays the young Queen in her Garter robes, adorned with the Star of the Order of the Garter and the Grand Duchess Vladimir’s Tiara, an exquisite piece crafted from 15 interlaced diamond circles. The Queen, turning to face the camera, reveals a subtle, playful smile, showcasing her sense of fun and the unmistakable twinkle in her eye.
Sir Cecil Beaton had photographed Her Late Majesty numerous times, but this image was taken during their final sitting together.
On this solemn day, the King observed a private moment of reflection at Balmoral, the place where his mother spent her last weeks before her passing on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96. Similarly, his siblings, the Princess Royal, the Duke of Edinburgh, and the Duke of York, spent the day privately with their own families.
By marking his accession at the location of his mother’s passing, King Charles follows in her footsteps. The late Queen traditionally spent her accession day, February 6, at Sandringham, the place where her father, George VI, peacefully passed away in 1952 after battling lung cancer.
Notably, Prince Harry, who arrived in London to attend the Wellchild Awards for sick children, was not expected to meet his father or brother before departing for Dusseldorf, Germany, to participate in the Invictus Games, commencing on Saturday.
In a meaningful gesture, the Prince and Princess of Wales attended a private service at St. David’s Cathedral in Haverfordwest. This church held a special significance for Elizabeth II, and the couple, who received their new titles the day following the Queen’s death, expressed their commitment to spending more time in Wales, building trust and fostering respect within local communities. St. David’s Cathedral is unique in the UK, as it has a special stall in the quire reserved for the sovereign among members of the chapter. The late Queen had occupied this special stall on four occasions during her reign.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised the late monarch’s wisdom, grace, and sharp wit, highlighting the gratitude for her dedicated service and extraordinary life of duty. He emphasized that the nation would reflect on the exemplary role she played for all.
Mr. Sunak fondly recalled his personal encounters with the late Queen, particularly a private audience he had with her at Buckingham Palace before presenting his first Budget as Chancellor. He remarked on her wisdom, warmth, grace, and her quick wit, sentiments echoed by many across the UK.
On this solemn anniversary, the nation’s thoughts were with His Majesty King Charles III and the entire royal family, Mr. Sunak stated, emphasizing that the late Queen’s legacy of service and the enduring bond between the country and the monarchy continued to flourish under the reign of the new King.
Scotland’s First Minister, Humza Yousaf, noted the late Queen’s deep fondness for Scotland, where she spent cherished moments with her family each summer. The Palace of Holyroodhouse was the setting for numerous gatherings, where Her Majesty recognized the service of community leaders, volunteers, artists, activists, faith leaders, and essential key workers.
Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross reflected on how the late Queen had united the nation in life and death. Thousands of Scots had come together to witness her cortege as it made its poignant journey from Balmoral to Holyrood Palace, a tribute to her enduring connection with the people of Scotland.
