In a historic moment for the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC), His Majesty King Charles III has assumed the role of the first Royal Patron, marking a significant chapter in the Commission’s history. This appointment follows the decades-long tenure of His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent, who has handed over the presidency to Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.
His Majesty The King has been a steadfast supporter of the CWGC, demonstrating a commitment to the organisation’s mission. Notably, during a recent State Visit to Kenya, King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited the Kariokor Cemetery in Nairobi, standing in remembrance with British and Kenyan military personnel. The royal couple engaged with the Commission’s efforts to commemorate all those who supported the Commonwealth’s endeavours during both World Wars.
Expressing her honour in assuming the presidency, The Princess Royal emphasised the CWGC’s role in recording and maintaining the graves of men and women from across the Commonwealth. She acknowledged the impact of the Commission’s cemeteries, large or small, and pledged to continue the dedicated work initiated by His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent over the past 50 years. Her Royal Highness stated,
Preserving the legacy of those from across the Commonwealth who gave their future to preserve ours is a privilege. We will remember them.
The outgoing President, The Duke of Kent, reflected on his more than 50-year tenure, expressing gratitude for the privilege of working closely with those dedicated to preserving the legacy and memory of the fallen. He expressed confidence in The Princess Royal’s ability to champion the remarkable organisation and ensure its continued success in commemorating the sacrifice of the men and women of the Commonwealth.
Claire Horton CBE, Director General of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, expressed the organisation’s deep gratitude for the ongoing support of the Royal Family. She remarked,
Today is doubly wonderful as we welcome His Majesty The King as our first Royal Patron and Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal as our President. It is a truly great honour for everyone connected to our remarkable organisation, and we look forward to sharing our exciting plans as CWGC takes its place as a global leader in sustainable and inclusive commemoration for all time.
Claire Horton CBE, Director General of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission
As the Commonwealth War Graves Commission enters this new era with His Majesty King Charles III as its first Royal Patron and Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal as President, the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to honouring the sacrifices of those who served during the World Wars. The CWGC looks forward to a future of continued growth and global leadership in preserving the memory of the Commonwealth’s fallen heroes.
Image Source:
- Commonwealth War Graves: Picryl
