King Charles III’s first speech to the nation as Sovereign

 

 

King Charles III’s first address as sovereign said “ My family owes a heartfelt debt to my mother. I speak to you today with feelings of profound sorrow. “Throughout her life, Her Majesty The Queen – my beloved Mother – was an inspiration and example to me and to all my family, and we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family can owe to their mother; for her love, affection, guidance, understanding, and example.”

A life well lived

She made sacrifices to duty, the King says “Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived, a promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.

Queen’s commitment made in 1947 defined her whole life-King Charles.

 

“Alongside the personal grief that all my family is feeling, we also share with so many of you in the United Kingdom, in all the countries where The Queen was Head of State, in the Commonwealth, and across the world, a deep sense of gratitude for the more than 70 years in which my Mother, as Queen, served the people of so many nations,” says the King.

“In 1947, on her 21st birthday, she pledged in a broadcast from Cape Town to the Commonwealth to devote her life, whether it be short or long, to the service of her people.

“That was more than a promise: it was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life.”

She made sacrifices to duty, the King says. “Her dedication and devotion as Sovereign never waivered, through times of change and progress, through times of joy and celebration, and through times of sadness and loss.”

‘In her life o service, we saw that abiding love of tradition together with that fearless embrace of progress which makes us great as nations. The affection, admiration, and respect she inspired became the hallmark of her reign. And as every member of my family can testify she combined these qualities with warmth, humour, and an unerring ability always to see the best in people. I pay tribute to my mother’s memory and I honour her life of service” says the King.

 

“I know that her death brings great sadness to so many of you. And I share that sense of loss beyond measure with you all”

The King ended his address with the following words:

“ And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear Papa, I want simply to say this thank you. Thank You for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years. May flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest.”