In Memoriam – Queen Elizabeth II, 1926 – 2022

During her reign, The Queen held over fifty ranks and appointments in the UK and Commonwealth Armed Services and was held in deep respect and affection.

As Sovereign, The Queen was Head of the Armed Forces, as well, of course, as being the matriarch of family with many connections with all three Services. 

Before her reign, she supported her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh during the final phase of his Naval career and later saw all her children Serve in the British Armed Forces, as well as her grandchildren, Prince William and Prince Harry. 

For over 70 years, The Queen has remained a steadfast champion of the Armed Forces and committed to numerous Forces charities.

The Queen herself, Served with the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) as Princess Elizabeth in 1945 becoming the first female member of the Royal Family to become a full-time active member of the Armed Forces, learning how to drive and maintain motor vehicles. 

The Queen’s first Military appointment was made on her 21st birthday, when she was appointed Colonel in Chief of the Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion of The Royal Regiment of Scotland. This was the same day that she made the oath that defined her life, when she stated that her “whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service”

Veterans will doubtless appreciate her years of support through her many patronages which included the Royal British Legion, the Union Jack Club, and the Not Forgotten Association, as well as leading the country in Remembrance and anniversary events connected with the Services.