King Charles III has released a message of commemoration, as today marks the first anniversary of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The official message came this morning, as the King and Queen then engaged in private prayer to commemorate the life and service of Queen Elizabeth II, at the royal residence in Balmoral.
King Charles III and Camilla, staying at their Balmoral estate in Aberdeenshire, attended a poignant event at Crathie Kirk, the late Queen’s place of worship. They were accompanied by the late Queen’s niece and nephew, Lady Sarah Chatto and the Earl of Snowdon, and their respective families.
The event holds deep significance for King Charles, who ascended to the throne following his mother’s passing at Balmoral on September 8 last year, at the age of 96, after a remarkable 70-year reign.
The King released a heartfelt message and a cherished photograph of her. From Balmoral Castle, he expressed his deep affection for her lifelong dedication and service, saying, “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.
“I am deeply grateful, too, for the love and support that has been shown to my wife and myself during this year as we do our utmost to be of service to you all.”
The chosen photograph, captured by Cecil Beaton in 1968, depicts the Queen at 42 years old, wearing garter robes and the Grand Duchess Vladimir’s Tiara.
Tributes From Royals And Politicians
The Prince and Princess of Wales visited St. David’s Cathedral in Wales for a private service during their trip to Pembrokeshire.They paid tribute to the late Queen on her death anniversary, taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, to say, “Today we remember the extraordinary life and legacy of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth. We all miss you. -W & C.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also paid tribute to the late Queen, acknowledging the increasing magnitude of her service and devotion to the UK and the Commonwealth. He praised her wisdom, warmth, grace, and sharp wit, emphasising the profound impact she had on people across the UK.
Former Prime Minister Liz Truss shared memories of her last encounter with the late Queen, describing her as “upbeat” and mentally alert despite her frailty.
Queen Elizabeth II had welcomed Mrs. Truss to her Aberdeenshire home on September 6, 2022, just days before her passing. Mrs. Truss vividly remembered the Queen’s determination to fulfil her duties until the end and her reassurance that they would meet again.
Queen Elizabeth II passed away two days after her meeting with Mrs. Truss, confirmed around 4:30 p.m. in the afternoon of September 8, 2022. Mrs. Truss had made the choice to focus on the practical aspects of the days ahead, while both she and the nation mourned.
Mrs. Truss remembered speaking to King Charles on the day his mother passed and his reign began, noting his resolute demeanour during their conversation.
Harry’s Tribute As Artillery Salutes
Members of the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery fire a Gun Royal Salute in Hyde Park, London, to mark Accession Day, the first anniversary of King Charles III accession to the throne and to mark Queen Elizabeth II death first anniversary on Friday September 8, 2023 Yui Mok/PA Wire
During the summer, King Charles resided at his Birkhall residence and Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire. However, due to his busy schedule, he is not expected to meet with his son, the Duke of Sussex, who attended a WellChild award ceremony in London before the start of the Invictus Games in Germany.
Prince Harry paid tribute to his grandmother during his speech at the WellChild award ceremony, mentioning that he knew she was watching over everyone. He expressed happiness about the community’s unity and continued efforts to make a positive impact.
In these moments of remembrance and reflection, the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II continues to influence and inspire her family and the nation she served for decades.
The Speaker of the Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share his thoughts, saying, “On the first anniversary of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, we reflect on her life, legacy and dedication to the UK, the British overseas territories and the Commonwealth. Our thoughts are with His Majesty The King and the Royal Family on this solemn day.”
Captain Amy Cooper, lead rider during the Queen’s funeral procession to Westminster Hall, led a 41-gun salute in Hyde Park at noon today.
Meanwhile, the Honourable Artillery Company fired a 62-gun salute at the Tower of London. Bells tolled at Westminster Abbey at 1 p.m.
Soldiers and horses from the state funeral procession also participated in Accession Day gun salutes in honour of the King.
