Royal Family Visits Troops Ahead of Queen’s Funeral

The Prince and Princess of Wales undertook a poignant task on Friday when they visited an army training centre in Surrey to meet soldiers involved in the funeral preparations for the Queen, scheduled for Monday, September 19.

The public continues to pay their respects to the late Queen, who passed away on September 8, at Westminster Hall, where her body currently rests.

Over a thousand sailors and Royal Marines will participate in the funeral procession, underscoring the significance of William and Catherine's visit to the training center.

Troops from various countries have traveled to the UK to partake in the historic event and have been practicing diligently at the training site.

This is just one of the many public engagements Prince William and Catherine have been involved in as they support King Charles III in his new role as Sovereign.

During their visit, the couple was treated to a ceremonial Maori dance performance by 25 members of the New Zealand Defence Force, which William acknowledged with a nod.

In conversations with troops from Australia and Canadian military personnel, William and Catherine reflected on the stark contrast between the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June and the somber preparations for her funeral.

William noted the emotional rollercoaster of transitioning from jubilation to mourning, while Catherine expressed how surreal it felt to move from the celebratory events to the current solemn atmosphere.

Throughout the visit, William was observed offering comfort to Catherine, frequently placing a reassuring hand on her.

The couple, alongside the entire Royal family, has been in mourning for over a week following the Queen's passing.

They also took time to engage with mourners gathered outside the Norwich gates, where William shared his thoughts on the challenging experience of walking behind the Queen's coffin, drawing parallels to Princess Diana's funeral.

Receptionist Jane Wells and Caroline Barwick Walters had heartfelt exchanges with William, with the latter expressing gratitude for his openness about his grief and acknowledging the Queen's role as a beloved figure to the nation.

Bex Neve, who waited patiently to meet the couple, recounted William and Catherine's appreciation for the overwhelming support they have received during this trying time.

During their public appearances, Prince William and Catherine maintained a somber attire, dressed in black as a sign of respect.

Catherine, in her usual grace, paid a subtle tribute to the late Queen through her choice of jewellery, wearing pearl and diamond earrings reminiscent of those worn by the Queen during her Silver Jubilee in 1977.

The Princess has been known to wear pieces believed to be from the Queen's personal collection on various occasions.

Following their visit to Sandringham to view tributes left for the Queen, Prince William engaged in a heartfelt conversation about his experience of walking behind the Queen's coffin, drawing parallels to his poignant walk behind Princess Diana's coffin in 1997.

As preparations continue for the Queen's funeral, Prince Charles and the Queen's grandchildren are set to hold a vigil at her coffin on Saturday, with William standing at the head alongside Prince Harry and other family members.