The Princess of Wales led the nation in a solemn Armistice Day tribute at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, attending the service for the first time. Catherine laid a wreath and left a handwritten message: «In memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, we will remember them. Catherine.» The ceremony marked the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, when Britain observes a two-minute silence to honor those who died in conflicts.
Queen Camilla traveled by train from Chippenham to London Paddington as part of Great Western Railway's "Poppies to Paddington" initiative. The Queen boarded the 9:28 am service aboard a train named after Second World War spy Odette Hallowes GC MBE, then placed a wreath at the war memorial on Platform One. The initiative, which began during Covid-19 lockdown in November 2020, transports wreaths from over 60 stations across the network to a central remembrance service.
William's message to young people
Prince William delivered a video message emphasizing the universal nature of remembrance. «Armistice Day is an important time for us to stop and reflect - it is a reminder that remembrance is for everyone,» he said. William told children aged 9-14: «When we remember, we connect with service in a personal way. We learn from the courage of others, and we carry their stories forward, so they are not forgotten.»
The Prince added: «Remembrance teaches us empathy, resilience and responsibility. And when we wear a red poppy or take a moment of silence, we are saying, 'Thank you. We have not forgotten, and we will not forget'.» He drew on his military experience and work with the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force to highlight the dedication of serving personnel.
At the National Memorial Arboretum, Catherine met Squadron Leader Beth Long and her daughters, whose husband Squadron Leader Mark Long died in a Spitfire crash in 2024. She also spoke with World War Two and D-Day veterans, including 100-year-old Donald Redston. Arji Manuelpillai, the arboretum's poet in residence, read a specially commissioned poem reflecting themes of service and sacrifice close to the Princess's heart.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
