King Charles has paid an emotional tribute to those affected by the fatal Royal Navy helicopter crash.
During a speech Tuesday at Windsor Castle, he expressed “great sadness” about the incident.
Addressing the Royal Marines, Guards and their families gathered for the ceremony, the King said he was “deeply shocked” by news of the crash, referring to his previous service with 845 Naval Air Squadron.
“As a former Junglie pilot from Naval Squadron 845, I was deeply surprised to hear this tragic news,” he said.
“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family, friends and colleagues of those involved. I know this accident may have affected everyone here today.”
He added a note of solidarity, while acknowledging the international presence at the event: “It is encouraging to see representatives of some of our oldest international allies and partners present on this occasion.
I pray that these bonds continue for years to come.”
The King then focused on the formal purpose of the ceremony, praising the Grenadier Guards as they were presented with new colours, which he said carried “45 battle honors from Tangier to the Gulf”, described as a “vivid testament to the courage, endurance and enduring spirit” of the regiment across generations.
“Those of you present at the parade today are the proud custodians of that legacy,” he told the assembled troops.
Reflecting on the regiment’s recent service, Charles highlighted its continued operational role since the last colors were presented 16 years ago, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as support during the Covid-19 pandemic and training assistance for the Ukrainian armed forces.
He said the modern world poses “new and evolving challenges, complex in nature and often unpredictable in form”, but expressed full confidence in the regiment’s continued strength.
“However, I have every confidence that the adaptability, professionalism and steadfast determination for which the Grenadier Guards are famous will ensure that you remain as effective and indispensable in meeting these demands as you have been in all previous eras,” he said.
At the conclusion of his speech, the King formally entrusted the new colors to the care of the regiment.
“So I entrust these new Colors to your care with complete confidence that you will continue to uphold the best traditions of the Grenadier Guards with steadfast determination, distinction and with that indomitable spirit that has been with you for 370 years and, I know, will be with you for many more to come.”
