Members of the British royal family, including Kate Middleton, Prince William, King Charles, and Queen Camilla, commemorated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II at a Service of Thanksgiving held at Westminster Abbey in London on May 8. The event coincided with the exact 80th anniversary of the war’s end, honoring those who made sacrifices and those who bravely fought during the six-year conflict.
Various events were held throughout the week leading up to the anniversary, culminating in the service at Westminster Abbey. Royalty such as King Charles and Queen Camilla joined by Prince William and Princess Kate, along with other members of the royal family, attended the service. The King’s brother, Prince Edward, his wife Sophie, Princess Anne, and other dignitaries were also present.
The service commenced with a national two-minute silence, where the congregation reflected on the heroism and sacrifices made by the armed forces and ordinary citizens during the war. Princess Kate and Queen Camilla stood by the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, while King Charles and Prince William paid their respects a few steps away. Following the silence, wreaths were laid at the Grave, and a procession led by the clergy took place inside the Abbey.
Notable attendees included Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who gave a reading, and Alexander Churchill, a descendant of Winston Churchill, who lit a Candle of Peace. The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, delivered an address, and representatives from various countries were present at the service.
The ceremony concluded with a rendition of the national anthem, “God Save The King,” sung by the royal family and attendees. The solemn yet respectful event paid tribute to the legacy of those who fought and the importance of peace and remembrance.
Following the conclusion of the service, King Charles and his royal entourage paused at the head of the aisle to engage with a few of the honored veterans in attendance. The dwindling population of this generation was evident, as fewer than 100 veterans were able to participate in the event. Meanwhile, Kate bent down to converse animatedly with a woman in a wheelchair, while William and Charles listened attentively to the tales shared by those who had served over 80 years ago.
The church, situated in the heart of London, serves as a poignant setting for national commemorations and festivities. Not only did it witness the union of Prince William and Princess Kate 14 years prior, but it also hosted the funeral of Queen Elizabeth in September 2022. Additionally, the church annually hosts Kate’s cherished carol service, a tradition firmly established in the royal calendar.
After the formal proceedings, King Charles and Queen Camilla mingled with the veterans in attendance. The visit culminated in Queen Camilla leading a group of royals in laying floral tributes at the Innocent Victims’ Memorial near the Abbey’s West Door.
The service proved to be a spiritual highlight in a week filled with commemorations. The week commenced on May 5 with a grand military parade and an impressive flypast above Buckingham Palace, witnessed by William, Kate, and their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Later that day, in an unexpected turn of events, Prince George joined the royal family at a tea party honoring approximately 50 World War II veterans at the palace.
On May 6, Queen Camilla visited the striking display of red ceramic poppies at the Tower of London. To cap off the week, a special concert featuring a lineup of esteemed musicians, including singer Freya Ridings and cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason, is scheduled to take place at Horse Guards Parade on May 8. King Charles and Queen Camilla are set to be the distinguished guests at this celebratory event, which will also showcase a performance by the professional dancers from Strictly Come Dancing, a beloved show in Britain.
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