Prince William delivered an emotionally charged speech on Wednesday, June 5, as he, alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla, commemorated the upcoming 80th anniversary of D-Day in Portsmouth.
Queen Camilla appeared visibly moved, her eyes welling with tears during the poignant event.
Prince William’s D-Day Tribute
Having recently honored former Rugby League player Rob Burrow, Prince William spoke fervently of the “bravery” and “strength” displayed by veterans during the historic D-Day landings.
The 41-year-old expressed his deep honor at attending the event, sharing this moment of remembrance with those who came to honor the largest seaborne invasion in history.
Prince William conveyed his profound respect to the crowd, highlighting the heroic efforts of individuals like John Haddock who participated in the D-Day landings.
He acknowledged the significance of their actions in initiating the liberation of France and Europe, leading to the eventual victory of the Allied Powers.
“Our guests of honor today are those veterans from the Normandy landing, who came from all corners of our nation and from diverse backgrounds to combat tyranny,” William stated. “Many were inexperienced in combat, some merely teenagers. Their letters and diaries reveal immense strength.”
The Prince of Wales read an excerpt from a letter by Captain Alastair Bannerman of the Royal Warwickshire Regiment, penned on the morning of D-Day to his wife.
The emotional reading underscored the personal sacrifices and uncertainties faced by those who fought.
While Captain Bannerman survived and returned home the following April, William poignantly noted that many others did not.
“Captain Bannerman survived the landings and the war, being taken prisoner and returning home to his wife and sons in April the next year. Too many never returned. They remain in ‘some corner of a foreign field that is forever England.’” He continued, “We will always remember those who served and those who saw them off. The families who watched their loved ones go to battle, uncertain of their return. Today, we honor the bravery of those who crossed the sea to liberate Europe, ensured the success of Operation Overlord, and awaited their safe return.”
For this significant occasion, Prince William adorned himself with medals, including the Great Master of The Most Honourable Order of the Bath, as well as the Golden, Diamond, and Platinum Jubilee medals, and a coronation medal.
King Charles also delivered an impassioned speech, lauding the “courage, resilience, and solidarity” of D-Day veterans and expressing profound admiration and respect for those who participated.
This event is one of many commemorations taking place across the UK and France to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
Prince William is set to travel to Normandy for the international commemorative ceremony at Omaha Beach on Thursday, June 6.