KING Charles wears his Field Marshal’s uniform in a new snap released by the palace last night.
The photograph – taken last year, before his cancer diagnosis – was released ahead of Armed Forces Day today.
Queen Camilla stepped up to deliver the message honouring service personnel and their families.
She hailed the “determination, unrelenting efforts and selfless loyalty” of service heroes – coming 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 military life has on your loved ones – you too are heroes.”
Her dad Major Bruce Shand served in the 12th Lancers – which is now part of the Royal Lancers (Queen Elizabeths’ Own) – and won a Military Cross for gallantry during the Battle of Dunkirk in the Second World War.
Making her address, Camilla wore her Royal Lancers brooch – the regiment in which her father served and of which she is Colonel in Chief.
On the table sits a photo of the King taken at Clarence House in his Royal Navy uniform as Admiral of the Fleet and photo of parents Major Bruce Shand and Rosalind Cubitt on their wedding day.
The annual message is usually given by the monarch – but palace insiders say Camilla was “appropriate” choice due to her family links to the military.
The King delivered the message last year and previously it was regularly given by the late Queen Elizabeth II – who only missed three during her 70 year reign.
In her address, the Queen said: “I am deeply honoured to join you all on Armed Forces Day.
“Whether in this country or overseas, we celebrate the service of the men and women in our military and thank you all for everything you do to protect this country of ours.
“We also remember those who have 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 were reminded of the incredible bravery of the Allied land, sea and air forces whose combined endeavours brought about the liberation of Western Europe and in whose debt we shall forever be.
“Eight decades later, I know that that same spirit and those same qualities remain much in evidence throughout our Armed Forces, as you undertake your duties in the face of a multitude of challenges and dangers.
“In so doing, you not only protect these Isles, but also defend liberties way beyond these shores.
“Your determination, unrelenting efforts and selfless loyalty to each other and to the United Kingdom are as enduring as our gratitude.
“I also want to thank your families, who keep the home fires burning, whilst you are deployed overseas.
“As the proud daughter of an Army officer, I know something of the impact military life has on your loved ones – you too are heroes.
“In times of war and in times of peace, whether seen or unseen, our Armed Forces support and strengthen our nation.
“You are a source of inspiration, reassurance and pride – and I salute you all.”
