Each November, the world marks Remembrance Day, the end of World War I in 1918 – a moment more than a century old, yet no less important or relevant.
At the forefront of the wartime commemorations is the British Royal Family, who step out for the National Service of Remembrance at The Cenotaph like clockwork ahead of November 11.
Of course, COVID-19 threw somewhat of a spanner into the works at this year’s routine memorial service, but that didn’t stop the royals from marking the day.
On Sunday, members of the British royal family made a COVID safe appearance in London at The Cenotaph.
Arriving in seperate cars in masks, and standing socially distanced, Duchess Catherine, Prince William, Sophie of Wessex and of course, Queen Elizabeth, were among the royals who turned out for the special event.
.jpg?resize=380%2C285)
-copy.jpg?resize=380%2C285)
Duchess Catherine arrived by car wearing a face mask.
(Getty)
Sophie Wessex also stood on the balcony to pay her respects.
(Getty)The service was poignant and filled with emotional moments.
The Queen, who is known to feel deeply during these services, was at one point seen overcome with emotion as everyone fell silent in remembrance of the fallen soldiers.
Earlier in the weekend, she also paid a visit to Westminster Abbey to honour the Unknown Warrior. There, she was pictured in a striking image wearing a face mask – the first time we’ve seen her wear the safety garment and an historic moment for the 94 year old.
The Queen was visibly emotional during the service.
(Getty)At Sunday’s London service, Duchess Catherine and Duchess Camilla stood on the same balcony overlooking The Cenotaph, though socially distanced from one another, as they also paid their respects.
Kate looked stunning in a beautiful black ensemble, which consisted a smart Alexander McQueen coat and matching hat.
Camilla joined Kate in the traditional black colour of mourning, wearing a beautiful hat and black coat.
Kate and Camilla stood on the balcony socially distanced.
(Getty)Over in the US, Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan, who were unable to fly back to the UK due to the COVID-19 restrictions, also marked the day in their own special way.
While the pair made the decision to step back from their roles as senior royal family members back in January this year, there are some important royal traditions that remain incredibly special to the Duke.
On Sunday, the pair were photographed laying flowers that the Duchess picked from their own home garden in Santa Barbara at the gravesites of two commonwealth soldiers at the LA National Cemetery.
The Sussexes placed a wreath at the memorial with a special message from Harry, which said: “To all of those who have served, and are serving. Thank you.”
While this year’s services looked vastly different to previous years, it was incredibly special to see the family mark the occasion in their own ways.
And, perhaps more than anything, it certainly reflects the importance of paying homage to those who died fighting for their country.
