Read King Charles III’s letter to Australian Defence Force troops after Queen Elizabeth II’s death

>

Read King Charles’ ‘special’ letter of thanks to Australian troops: ‘I share my mother’s esteem for your courage and dedication’

  • Read King Charles III’s heartfelt message to Australian troops
  • Expression of appreciation for their service during his late mother’s 70-year reign
  • Said the Queen took utmost pride in the way troops carried out their duties?

<!–

<!–

<!–<!–

<!–

<!–

<!–

King Charles III has written a heartfelt letter expressing his deep gratitude and appreciation to the Australian troops for their bravery during the 70-year reign of his late mother Queen Elizabeth II.

The letter sent by the newly crowned King less than five weeks after Her Majesty’s death also shares her high regard for past and present Australian servicemen and women.

Obtained by 2GB breakfast host Ben Fordham, the letter was addressed to the chief of the Australian Defense Force on a Buckingham Palace letterhead.

It has been gratefully appreciated by Australian troops ever since.

“On the occasion of my accession to sovereignty, I would like to send to all who serve in the Australian Defense Force my sincere gratitude for the unwavering loyalty and professionalism you have shown during the reign of my beloved mother,” King Charles’s message begins. . .

King Charles III (left) has written a letter to the Australian Defense Force expressing his deep appreciation for servicemen who served during his late mother's reign.  He was pictured at a community reception in Aberdeenshire with Queen Consort Camilla on Tuesday

King Charles III (left) has written a letter to the Australian Defense Force expressing his deep appreciation for servicemen who served during his late mother’s reign. He was pictured at a community reception in Aberdeenshire with Queen Consort Camilla on Tuesday

“I know that the Queen took the utmost pride in the way Australian soldiers carried out their duties in many parts of the world and often under the most trying and difficult conditions.”

The letter ends with King Charles sharing his late mother’s high esteem for the bravery and commitment of the Australian troops.

“I know for my part that you will continue to serve your country with the dedication and courage you have shown with such success in recent years,” he wrote.

Defense Secretary Richard Marles was unaware of King Charles’ letter until he was notified of its existence by Fordham on Wednesday.

He was moved by the ‘very special’ letter and said it would be much appreciated by the Australian troops.

“This is something that will mean a lot to our serving men and women,” Mr Marles told 2GB.

Australian Defense Force troops were involved in the funeral procession for Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey last month.  Pictured is Australian Army officer Captain Joshua Downs (right) being thanked by the Prince and Princess of Wales

Australian Defense Force troops were involved in the funeral procession for Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey last month.  Pictured is Australian Army officer Captain Joshua Downs (right) being thanked by the Prince and Princess of Wales

Australian Defense Force troops were involved in the funeral procession for Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Abbey last month. Pictured is Australian Army officer Captain Joshua Downs (right) being thanked by the Prince and Princess of Wales

King Charles III has paid tribute to past and present Australian servicemen and women in a 'very special' letter (pictured)

King Charles III has paid tribute to past and present Australian servicemen and women in a 'very special' letter (pictured)

King Charles III has paid tribute to past and present Australian servicemen and women in a ‘very special’ letter (pictured)

“There is a very strong link between the royal family and our armed forces.

“It is very special to receive the letter confirming Queen Elizabeth’s appreciation for their efforts by the new King and we appreciate it very much.”

The letter comes weeks after ADF members involved in the Queens’ state funeral ceremony in London last month were personally thanked by the king’s son, Prince William.

The Prince and Princess of Wales visited Pirbright Barracks two days before the funeral to thank Commonwealth troops from Australia, Canada and New Zealand for taking part in the ceremony.

The royal couple spent time chatting with members of the marching contingent, including Australian Army Captain Joshua Downs.

‘It was an honor to meet them. I really appreciate the fact that they have taken the time to show us their support, despite the fact that Prince William has only just lost his grandmother,” said Captain Downs.

“Their care for us in preparation for the funeral was incredibly moving.”

The letter added that the late Queen Elizabeth II (pictured) always had great respect for the bravery and dedication of the Australian troops during her 70-year reign

The letter added that the late Queen Elizabeth II (pictured) always had great respect for the bravery and dedication of the Australian troops during her 70-year reign

The letter added that the late Queen Elizabeth II (pictured) always had great respect for the bravery and dedication of the Australian troops during her 70-year reign