Princess Anne kicks off barracks relay with a bang

Princess Anne brought her trademark energy and down to earth charm to Australia on Tuesday, helping mark the 100th anniversary of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals. 

At Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane, the Princess Royal even got hands on, starting a relay race for serving members proving that royal duties don’t always mean standing still.

Her first visit to Queensland in eleven years won hearts among soldiers, Qantas passengers, and local politicians alike, with those meeting her describing the senior royal as refreshingly approachable. 

She also laid a wreath and met with current and former armed forces personnel and their families, underscoring her long-standing dedication to military service.

The spirit of Veterans Day stretched far beyond Australia. In France, President Emmanuel Macron led a wreath-laying ceremony on the Champs-Elysées at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, while in the UK, Princess Catherine led a reflective ceremony at Staffordshire’s National Memorial Arboretum. 

Even the next generation got involved, Prince William delivered a virtual message to UK children, emphasizing remembrance as a way to honour courage, carry forward stories of service, and foster empathy and responsibility.

Veterans were also celebrated beyond the royal events. The team at AFC Urgent Care paid tribute, sharing, “Your courage, dedication, and sacrifice inspire us every day,” while extending a special nod to Princess Anne for her service.

While Anne kicked things off down under, the rest of the royal family was out in force in the UK. King Charles and Queen Camilla, joined by Princes William and Edward and the Duchess of Gloucester, hosted a Windsor Castle reception for Pacific veterans, while Camilla, William, and Kate participated in commemorations across the country.