One year after Queen Elizabeth II passed away, members of the British Royal Family are paying tribute to the late monarch.
Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for an impressive 70 years, passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96.
The late monarch faced mobility challenges in her later years, including using a wheelchair during her Jubilee celebrations three months prior to her passing. Despite these challenges, she continued to fulfill her official duties as she approached her 100th year, displaying remarkable dedication when many might have retired decades earlier.
The late Queen represented the nation's stability, and for most citizens, she was the only monarch they had ever known. Her reign was the longest in British history, marked by unwavering commitment to her royal responsibilities. Abdication was never considered as she had made a solemn promise to rule until her life's end.
Following her death, the UK observed a ten-day national mourning period. Her body lay in state at Westminster Hall from September 14 to 16, 2022, with approximately 250,000 people paying their respects.
A State Funeral took place at Westminster Abbey on September 19, 2022, followed by a committal service at St George's Chapel, Windsor. This was a solemn farewell to a beloved monarch.
King Charles' tribute to the late Queen
As the first anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's passing approaches, King Charles III and Queen Camilla plan to commemorate it privately. There will be no public events or family gatherings at Balmoral. As per The Independent, the Prince and Princess of Wales are set to participate in a commemorative service at St Davids Cathedral in St Davids, west Wales, in honor of the late Queen.
The year following the queen's passing has brought both internal and external challenges for the monarchy. Protests against the monarchy's relevance and colonial ties have presented difficulties. Anti-monarchy groups like No More Royals continue to voice their discontent.
To mark the anniversary, King Charles III released a previously unseen portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. This portrait, taken in 1968 by Cecil Beaton, showcases the queen wearing her Garter robes and the Grand Duchess Vladimir's Tiara.
In a short statement written and recorded at Balmoral Castle, where the Queen passed away, King Charles said:
'In marking the first anniversary of Her Late Majesty's death and my accession, we recall with great affection her long life, devoted service and all she meant to so many of us.'
In marking the first anniversary of Her late Majesty’s death and my Accession, we recall with great affection her long life, devoted service and all she meant to so many of us.
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) September 7, 2023
I am deeply grateful, too, for the love and support that has been shown to my wife and myself during… pic.twitter.com/NfM6LDWTA0
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also paid tribute to the late monarch, praising her wisdom, grace, and 'sharp wit.' He acknowledged the ongoing appreciation for her extraordinary life of duty and dedication.
Prince Harry's tribute to the late Queen
Prince Harry, now living in California with Meghan and their children, recently journeyed to London for a WellChild charity event, of which he is a patron.
Despite his visit to London and upcoming trip to Germany for the Invictus Games, Harry is not expected to meet with his father or brother, nor is he anticipated to join any public remembrance events for his late grandmother. In his WellChild speech, Harry said:
'I was unable to attend the awards last year as my grandmother passed away ... I know, exactly one year on, that she is looking down on all of us tonight, happy we're together, continuing to spotlight such an incredible community.'
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