A new portrait of King Charles in military dress has been unveiled in honour of Armed Forces Day. The picture, taken in the Grand Corridor of Windsor Castle, shows the King seated in the ceremonial dress of a Field Marshal, adorned with medals, a sword and decorations.
The release of the image coincides with Queen Camilla’s tribute to members of the armed forces, whom she described in a video message as a source of inspiration, reassurance and pride.
Armed Forces Day is celebrated on the last Saturday in June, paying tribute to veterans, military personnel and service families, a tradition established in the UK in the late 2000s. BBC informed of.
The photo, taken in November last year by Hugo Burnand, who is known for royal photography including the king’s 2023 coronation portraits, shows King Charles dressed in the uniform of a field marshal, the highest rank in the British military. As monarch, he serves as the ceremonial head of the armed forces.
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While attending a recent D-Day commemoration in Normandy, France, King Charles wore a brown version of the Field Marshal’s uniform.
In her video message from Clarence House, Queen Camilla praised the “incredible bravery” of military personnel who initiated the liberation of Europe from Nazi Germany in 1944.
He said that even after 80 years, “the same spirit and the same qualities prevail in our armed forces”, which “perform their duties facing numerous challenges and dangers.”
The Queen added: “In doing so you safeguard not only these islands, but also freedom beyond these shores.”
“Your determination, tireless efforts and selfless devotion to each other and to the United Kingdom are as enduring as our gratitude.”
The patron of the British Forces Broadcasting Service charity responsible for the video expressed his gratitude to the families of military personnel who continue to live at home while their loved ones are serving overseas.
Reflecting on her father, Major Bruce Shand’s service in North Africa and Dunkirk during World War II, where he earned the Military Cross, the Queen remarked, ‘As the daughter of an Army officer, I understand the profound impact military life has on families. You are heroes too.'”
“In time of war and in time of peace, whether directly or indirectly, our armed forces support and strengthen our nation. You are a source of inspiration, reassurance and pride – and I salute you all.”