Buckingham Palace publishes a new portrait of King Charles as he battles cancer

A new portrait of King Charles in military garb has been unveiled in honor of Armed Forces Day. The photo, taken in the Grand Corridor of Windsor Castle, shows the monarch seated in his ceremonial field marshal’s garb adorned with medals, a sword and decorations.

The release of the photo coincides with Queen Camilla’s tribute to members of the armed forces, whom she described in a video message as a source of inspiration, encouragement and pride.

Armed Forces Day, celebrated on the last Saturday in June, pays tribute to veterans, military personnel and military families, in keeping with a tradition that began in the UK in the late 21st century, BBC reported.

Photographed last November by Hugo Burnand, known for royal photography including the king’s 2023 coronation portraits, King Charles is dressed in the uniform of a field marshal, the highest rank in the British army. As monarch, he serves as the ceremonial head of the armed forces.

While recently attending D-Day commemorations in Normandy, France, King Charles wore a brown version of his field marshal’s uniform.

In her video message from Clarence House, Queen Camilla praised the “incredible courage” of the military personnel who ushered in Europe’s liberation from Nazi Germany in 1944.

She stated that 80 years later, “the same spirit and the same qualities are still evident in our Armed Forces”, which “take up their duties in the face of many challenges and dangers”.

The Queen added: “By doing this, you are not only protecting these islands, but also defending freedom far beyond their shores.

“Your determination, relentless efforts and selfless loyalty to each other and to the United Kingdom are as enduring as our gratitude.”

The patron of the British Forces Broadcasting Service charity foundation, responsible for the recording, expressed gratitude to the families of soldiers who take care of their homes while their loved ones serve abroad.

Reflecting on her father, Major Bruce Shand’s service in North Africa and Dunkirk during World War II, where he was awarded the Military Cross, the Queen noted: “As the daughter of an army officer, I understand the profound effect that military life has on families. You, too, are heroes.”

“In times of war and peace, whether seen or unseen, our armed forces support and strengthen our nation. You are a source of inspiration, comfort and pride – and I pay tribute to you all.”

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