Category: On This Day

On This Day: June 06, 2014 – D-Day Commemorations

As we await updates about The Princess of Wales, I wanted to reflect on some of her past engagements. Each week, I’ll highlight a different event. This week, let’s revisit William and Catherine joining veterans to commemorate those who lost their lives in World War II.

On June 6, 2014, Their Royal Highnesses, then The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Catherine, embarked on a meaningful journey to France to commemorate the historic D-Day. This significant event marked the 70th anniversary of the Normandy landings, a pivotal moment in World War II history.

The royal couple’s journey began with their arrival at the Airport Caen-Carpiquet in Normandy, where they were warmly welcomed by the Mayor of Arromanches and a naval attache. The sight of uniformed French and British military members lining their path added to the occasion’s solemnity.

Upon disembarking, Prince William and Catherine engaged with approximately 50 WWII veterans over tea, exchanging stories and showing their profound respect for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. Catherine exhibited her characteristic grace and empathy, acknowledging the veterans’ experiences with heartfelt words.

Subsequently, Prince William and Catherine visited the D-Day Museum, immersing themselves in the exhibits that honored the historical significance of the Normandy landings. They then participated in a poignant commemoration ceremony, joining local veterans in singing the national anthem as a mark of solidarity and remembrance.

In a moving tribute, Prince William delivered a poignant address, recognizing the immeasurable sacrifices of those who gave their lives for the cause of freedom. His words underscored the importance of imparting this legacy of courage to future generations, ensuring that the profound significance of these sacrifices endures through time.

Notably, Catherine’s sartorial choice was infused with elegance and symbolism, as she opted to recycle a powder blue Alexander McQueen coat dress, complemented by a black straw hat and sapphire and diamond earrings. The thoughtful selection of her ensemble echoed the dignity and respect she conveyed throughout the commemorative engagement.

GALLERY LINKS:

– Engagements & Tour Photos > 2014 > June 06 | 70th Anniversary Of The D-Day Landings

On This Day: May 29, 2014 – A Visit To Scotland

As we await updates about The Princess of Wales, I wanted to reflect on some of her past engagements. Each week, I’ll highlight a different event. This week, let’s revisit a day of engagements in Scotland where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge participated.

On May 29, 2014, the Prince and Princess of Wales, also known as the Earl and Countess of Strathearn in Scotland, embarked on a visit to Scotland. This marked Prince William and Catherine’s first official engagement in Scotland following their highly successful trip to Australia and New Zealand the previous month. The royal couple warmly greeted well-wishers in Crieff, where they were treated to the delightful melodies of bagpipers and had the pleasure of meeting with a group of brownies and scouts at a local school. In 2012, Catherine became a volunteer of The Scout Association and would later become Joint President of The Scout Association with The Duke of Kent in September 2020.

You can visit our page dedicated to The Princess of Wales’s work with The Scout Association here.

The Countess of Strathearn looked radiant in a stunning two-toned striped coat designed by Scottish designer Jonathan Saunders, complemented by a dress from Goat and a Celtic knotted brooch, a wedding gift. Before their visit, they spent a night at the Gleneagles resort.

Subsequently, Catherine and William stopped at the Famous Grouse Distillery in Glenturret, Scotland. They savored a “wee dram” of single-malt whiskey, with William playfully encouraging Catherine to partake.

During their visit, the couple received thoughtful gifts, including a mini-kilt for their son, Prince George, and a traditional Scottish kilt-clad teddy bear for Catherine, which she held dear. Prince George would turn one in July of 2014.

GALLERY LINKS:

– Engagements & Tour Photos > 2023 > May 29 | The Duke & Duchess Visit Scotland