In a touching gesture, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, reached out to the Irish Guards with an apology for her absence from the final rehearsal of Trooping the Colour.
In a heartfelt letter, she expressed her pride in the regiment and wished them well as they prepare for the upcoming event.
Middleton’s letter conveyed her admiration for the hard work and dedication displayed by the soldiers.
She acknowledged the countless hours of practice they have put into perfecting their drills and uniforms.
“I wanted to write and let you know how proud I am of the entire regiment ahead of the colonel’s review and Trooping the Colour,” she stated, highlighting the significance of their commitment.
As the Colonel of the Irish Guards, Middleton typically plays an active role in such events.
Her presence is not only a tradition but also a source of inspiration for the troops.
However, the British Army’s website had previously indicated that she would not be attending this year’s Colonel’s Review, leading to speculation about her participation.
The decision came after Middleton’s recent health challenges were made public.
Earlier this spring, it was revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer following a scheduled abdominal surgery.
This news understandably raised concerns about her well-being and public engagements.
In a video message shared on March 22, the Princess described the diagnosis as a significant shock, emphasizing the need for her family to take time to process the situation.
She also mentioned that she would undergo preventive chemotherapy, which has kept her away from the public eye during this challenging period.
The Irish Guards received her letter with deep appreciation, expressing how much her words meant to them.
“It touched us deeply to receive a letter from our Colonel,” they remarked, conveying their continued support and well-wishes for her recovery.
In a show of solidarity, the regiment listened to Middleton’s letter aloud during their practice, applauding her message at the end.
This moment underscored the bond between the troops and their Colonel, even in her absence.
As the Trooping the Colour approaches, the Irish Guards remain focused and determined, buoyed by the encouragement from their Colonel.
They are set to participate in the grand parade on June 15, which honors the King’s birthday—a highlight in the royal calendar.
In Middleton’s absence, the salute during the rehearsal was taken by Lt. Gen. James Bucknall, the former commander of the United Rapid Response Corps.
His presence ensured that the ceremony maintained its dignity and tradition, even without the Princess.
While Middleton may not be physically present, her spirit and support resonate strongly with the regiment.
