Additional Coverage:
- King Charles Reflects on Family Memories in Heartfelt Speech Amid Prince Harry Rift (usmagazine.com)
King Charles III delivered a moving speech at the 80th anniversary of VE Day, referencing family history and the importance of remembrance.
Speaking at Horse Guards Parade in London, the King echoed his grandfather, King George VI’s, sentiments about the end of WWII. He expressed gratitude for the wartime generation’s service and sacrifice, emphasizing the lasting impact of the war on everyone’s lives.
The King also touched upon the upcoming 80th anniversary of D-Day, which he and Queen Camilla will commemorate next June. He recalled meeting Holocaust survivors and the profound impact of their stories.
Reflecting on the unity that led to Allied victory, the King referenced his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, and her wartime diary entries. He injected a touch of humor, referencing the Queen’s youthful exuberance and stamina. He also spoke of his late grandfather, Prince Philip, and his Royal Navy service.
King Charles stressed the duty of future generations to preserve the stories of WWII, encouraging listening, learning, and sharing, as demonstrated by communities across the nation this week. He concluded with a quote from his grandfather about the importance of lasting peace built on justice and goodwill.
The King’s emphasis on family comes amidst reported tensions with his son, Prince Harry. The Duke of Sussex recently gave an interview in which he implied his father was behind the denial of his appeal for government-funded UK security and claimed the King wasn’t speaking to him. King Charles has not publicly responded to these claims.