Queen Elizabeth Kicks Off Today's Royal Air Force Centenary Celebrations at Westminster Abbey
Queen Elizabeth may have missed her great-grandson's christening yesterday, but the 92-year-old monarch was back in action this morning, attending a service at Westminster Abbey in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force (RAF). This is just one event in a series today surrounding the RAF centenary. Later on, we'll see her on the Buckingham Palace balcony for a historic flyover, and at a reception in honor of the day.
Never one to shy away from color, the Queen chose a vibrant coat and hat featuring two contrasting shades of blue.
The RAF has close ties to the royal family, with many of its members, including the Duke of Cambridge serving as pilots. Earlier this year, the Queen wrote a "centenary message" to the Royal Air Force. Read it in full below:
On this, the centenary of its formation, I send my heartfelt congratulations to the Royal Air Force at home and overseas, and to all of its families and loved ones.
The anniversary of the world’s first independent Air Force is of great significance, and it is fitting to pay tribute to the tenacity, skill and sacrifice of the men and women who have served within its ranks over the last century, and who have defended our freedom so gallantly. Through its enduring focus on professionalism, excellence and innovation, the Royal Air Force stands as a shining example of inspiration around the World today and for the next generations.
May the glory and honour that all ranks have bestowed on the Royal Air Force light its pathway to the future, guarding our skies and reaching for the stars.
Per Ardua ad Astra.
ELIZABETH R.
According to the Press Association, the Queen's absence from Louis's baptism at St. James's Palace on Monday was pre-planned. "The decision was not made on health grounds, Buckingham Palace says, and it is understood to have been mutually agreed by the Queen and the Cambridges some time ago," reported the association.
The Queen likely skipped the quick religious celebration as she has an incredibly busy schedule this week. In addition to today's event, she will also meet with President Trump at Windsor Castle on Friday.
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