William And Harry Honor D-Day Veterans At 75th Anniversary Commemorations
Today, the royal brothers William and Harry have paid tribute to the hero D-Day veterans at anniversary commemorations in Britain.
Prince Harry, stepped out solo with a visit to the Royal Hospital Chelsea during their annual Founder’s Day Parade.
Meanwhile, his brother, Prince William delivered a speech to veterans and military personnel at a service at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, Staffordshire to honour D-Day veterans.
Using the words the Queen’s father said in 1944, the prince said: “Four years ago our nation and empire stood alone against an overwhelming enemy, with our backs to the wall.
“Now once more a supreme test has to be faced.
“This time the challenge is not to fight to survive but to fight to win the final victory for the good cause.
“At this historic moment surely not one of us is too busy, too young, or too old to play a part in a nationwide, perchance a world-wide vigil of prayer as the great crusade sets forth.”
The Duke of Cambridge also laid a wreath at the Normandy Campaign Memorial, along with dignitaries and veterans.
His personal message, attached to the poppy wreath, reads: ‘In memory of all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We will remember them. William.’
Prince Harry was beaming as he arrived at the Royal Hospital for the annual Founder’s Day Parade and was joined by six veterans from the Normandy.
The parade commemorates King Charles II’s founding of the institution in 1681.
For the important event, Prince Harry, a former Army officer, arrived wearing his Blues and Royals frock coat and like all the pensioners and guests wore a sprig of oak leaves in honour of Charles.
Upon his arrival, he met with residents and learned more about the home’s programs and activities. Later, he reviewed the Chelsea Pensioners, who stood in four companies in the Royal Hospital’s central courtyard for inspection.
Harry was cheerful as always making jokes with the elderly servicemen and women.
Harry tried to humour Frank Swift, 90, when the veteran said he was not in good health.
“I can’t walk,” said the wheelchair bound former Warrant Officer 2nd Class who served with the Corps of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.
Harry lightened the mood and made everyone laugh when he said “but you’ve got a comfy chair”.