KING Charles wears his Field Marshal uniform in a new photo released by the palace last night.
The photograph – taken last year, before his cancer diagnosis – was released today ahead of Armed Forces Day.
Queen Camilla stepped forward to deliver the message honoring service personnel and their families.
She praised the “determination, tireless efforts and selfless loyalty” of military service heroes – which came just weeks after she appeared alongside the King at the 80th anniversary of D-Day commemorations.
The Queen added: “As the proud daughter of an Army officer, I know something of the impact that military life has on your loved ones – you are heroes too.”
His father, Major Bruce Shand, served in the 12th Lancers – which is now part of the Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeth’s Own) – and won a Military Cross for bravery during the Battle of Dunkirk in the Second World War.
Delivering her speech, Camilla wore her Royal Lancers brooch – the regiment her father served in and of which she is Colonel-in-Chief.
On the table is a photo of the King taken at Clarence House in his Royal Navy uniform as Admiral of the Fleet and a photo of his parents, Major Bruce Shand and Rosalind Cubitt, on their wedding day.
The annual message is usually given by the monarch – but palace sources say Camilla was the “appropriate” choice due to her family ties to the military.
The King delivered the message last year and was previously given regularly by the late Queen Elizabeth II – who missed just three during her 70-year reign.
In her speech, the Queen said: “I am deeply honored to join you all on Armed Forces Day.
“If in this country or abroad, we celebrate the service of the men and women in our armed forces and thank them all for all they do to protect this country of ours.
“We also remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of stability and peace around the world.
“Earlier this month, my husband and I were in Normandy on the 80th anniversary of D-Day.
“We remember the incredible bravery of the Allied land, sea and air forces, whose combined efforts brought about the liberation of Western Europe and in whose debt we will forever be.
“Eight decades later, I know that this same spirit and these same qualities remain very much in evidence throughout our Armed Forces, as they carry out their duties in the face of a multitude of challenges and dangers.
“By doing so, you not only protect these islands, but also defend freedoms far beyond these shores.
“Your determination, tireless efforts and selfless loyalty to each other and to the UK are as enduring as our gratitude.
“I also want to thank your families, who keep the fire at home burning while you are abroad.
“As the proud daughter of an Army officer, I know something about the impact military life has on your loved ones – you are heroes too.
“In times of war and in times of peace, visible or invisible, our Armed Forces support and strengthen our nation.
“You are a source of inspiration, security and pride – and I salute you all.”
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