Nation commemorates wartime heroes, with King, Queen, William, and Kate at the forefront of VE Day celebrations, following Harry's recent call for reconciliation – a plea that stirred up conversations.
The Royal Family gathered in London to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day. King Charles III, Queen Consort Camilla, Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, attended the military parade. Queen Elizabeth's grandchildren showcased a united front commemorating the service of those who brought peace to Europe and the world.
The event took place on a specially built dais outside Buckingham Palace while thousands of people watched from the streets. William shook hands with a veteran and his children followed suit, with Kate greeting the old serviceman before sitting beside him. Later, Louis playfully tapped his father for attention as they watched together.
Meanwhile, Charles chatted with Joy Trew, a 98-year-old veteran who served in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force. Meanwhile, Camilla spoke with Jack Mortimer, a Royal British Legion veteran. As a tribute to the wartime generation, hundreds of street parties were held across the country while formal military events took place in London.
The Royal Family were set to watch a flypast of iconic Royal Air Force planes later that day. Additionally, Charles was expected to host a tea party for living heroes of the conflict and their families. The VE Day plans were in place before Prince Harry's recent court defeat, but it did not detract from the Royal Family's unifying role and positive contribution to public life during these commemorations.
The celebrations came three days after Harry's court defeat regarding his round-the-clock police bodyguard in the UK, which he referred to as a "good old-fashioned establishment stitch-up." Harry claimed his father would not speak to him and he does not know "how much longer my father has," but it did not overshadow the significance of the VE Day commemorations.
Meanwhile, Meghan Markle posted a photo of Harry and their children, appearing to show solidarity with her husband. The black and white image, without a message, showed Harry walking with daughter Lilibet on his shoulders and son Archie holding his hand. It's unclear whether these events will refocus attention on the Royal Family's unifying role or continue to be overshadowed by Harry's latest statements.
References:
[1] - VE Day 80: Pictorial Review[2] - In pictures: Is it Harry's apology or the royals' united front that steals the show?[3] - Meghan Markle drops royal undertones as she shrugs off Harry's bombshell claim and celebrates her own 'accomplishments'[4] - Fist bump, tears, and 1,300 troops – The Telegraph's best photos of the 80th VE Day anniversary celebrations[5] - VE Day 80: The service, the people, the reasons – and the breath-taking flypast
The Royal Family's unifying role was emphasized through various events, including street parties and military parades, showcasing their commitment to commemorating VE Day and honoring the wartime generation. Meanwhile, Meghan Markle posted a supportive image on social media, potentially refocusing attention on the family's efforts.
Despite the ongoing media attention on Prince Harry's recent court ruling and personal statements, the VE Day celebrations served as a reminder of the positive impact the Royal Family can have on public life.
