Earlier this month, The Common Wealth War Grave’s Commission (CWGC) hosted Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal at its global headquarters in Maidenhead, marking her inaugural visit as the newly appointed President of the organisation. The visit was facilitated by Vice Admiral Peter Hudson CB CBE, Vice Chairman of the CWGC, and Claire Horton CBE, Director General, along with other staff and volunteers.
During her time at the headquarters, The Princess Royal engaged in a comprehensive tour of the facility, including the CWGC’s archives. This tour offered Her Royal Highness insights into the organisation’s history, its current major projects, and the challenges it faces in its ongoing commitment to commemorating those who have died in conflict.
Accompanied by HM Lord-Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire, Mr. Andrew Try, The Princess Royal’s visit also included the unveiling of a commemorative plaque. This act celebrated her appointment as President and her first visit to the CWGC’s global headquarters. In addition, staff presented several gifts to Her Royal Highness as tokens of appreciation.
The visit also served as an opportunity to introduce Her Royal Highness to “For Evermore – Stories of the Fallen,” a digital archive that shares the stories of men and women commemorated by the CWGC. Among the stories shared was that of Captain The Hon. Fergus Bowes-Lyon, a relative of The Princess Royal, commemorated at Quarry Cemetery, Vermelles, France.
The CWGC values the long-standing support of The Princess Royal, who has visited numerous CWGC cemeteries and memorials worldwide. Her visit to the headquarters underscores a shared commitment to ensuring the memory of those who have lost their lives in conflict is preserved for future generations.
The CWGC looks forward to continuing its work with Her Royal Highness in the years to come, furthering the mission of commemoration and remembrance across the globe.
About The Common Wealth War Grave’s Commission:
The Common Wealth War Grave’s Commission is tasked with commemorating the 1.7 million men and women of the Commonwealth forces who died in the two world wars. The CWGC maintains cemeteries and memorials at 23,000 locations, in more than 150 countries and territories.
Image Source:
- The Princess Royal: The CWGC
