The Princess of Wales paid her respects to fallen soldiers from Australia and New Zealand during a military memorial service at Westminster Abbey over the weekend. Katherine, commonly referred to as Kate Middleton, represented the royal family at this year’s Anzac Day commemorations held in London.
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On 25 April, the Princess laid a wreath adorned with red and white flowers at the Cenotaph war memorial, a significant site for honouring those who have served in conflicts. Accompanying the wreath was a deeply personal handwritten note, which she signed as “Catherine,” alongside her husband Prince William’s signature. The message acknowledged the sacrifices made by ANZAC soldiers, stating, “In memory of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.”
Anzac Day is a day of remembrance observed each year to honour the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who lost their lives in battle, particularly during the First World War. The day’s events included a Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey following the laying of the wreath at the Cenotaph.
In a departure from the royal family’s traditional practice of not giving public autographs, both Prince William and Princess Kate engage with the public through brief encounters and candid photographs. During an event in 2022 at the Chelsea Flower Show, Kate explained her inability to sign autographs, stating, “I’m not allowed to write my signature — it’s just one of those rules.” This reflects the royal family’s effort to maintain certain boundaries while still connecting with the public.
The commemorative service itself featured a range of tributes, including an address from the Dean of Westminster and readings from both the New Zealand and Australian High Commissioners. Adding a cultural element to the proceedings, a Māori waiata (song) was performed by Ngāti Rānana, a Māori cultural club based in London, enriching the ceremony with tradition and reflection.
While the Princess of Wales attended the Anzac Day events on her own, she was not the sole senior royal to participate. Princess Anne, the King’s sister, also marked the occasion by attending the Dawn Service at Wellington Arch in Hyde Park Corner. This service included readings, the playing of the Last Post, a moment of silence, and the national anthems of both nations.
The ensemble chosen by Kate for the day attracted attention due to its resemblance to a previous outfit worn by the late Princess Diana. Kate opted for a navy coat dress created by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen, featuring elegant white lapels and a matching Jane Taylor hat. Her look was completed with a poignant poppy pin, navy pumps by Gianvito Rossi, and a mini handbag from DeMellier.
In a touching nod to her late mother-in-law, she adorned herself with sapphire and diamond earrings that previously belonged to Diana and have become a cherished part of her jewellery collection. The resemblance between both women’s outfits served as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Diana, who wore a similar navy ensemble during a public engagement in 1995.
As members of the royal family continue to attend Anzac Day services, their presence highlights the importance of remembrance and respect for those who dedicated their lives to service. The Princess of Wales’s participation this year underscores her commitment to these values and her ongoing role in honouring the sacrifices of the ANZAC troops.
The commemorations serve to foster a sense of togetherness and remembrance among the public, reinforcing the significance of such memorials in maintaining awareness of the sacrifices made in the line of duty. As the royal family looks to the future, their involvement in such events remains a vital part of their public engagement and service to the nation.