Queen Camilla pays tribute to King Charles II during speech at Royal Hospital Chelsea

Queen Camilla served as Reviewing Officer at the annual Founder's Day celebrations held at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.Upon reaching Cadogan Court, the Governor and Lady Bradshaw welcomed the Queen to the historic site.Before joining the main parade, Camilla made her way to the Margaret Thatcher Infirmary, where she spent time with Chelsea Pensioners whose health prevented them from participating in the outdoor ceremony, along with the medical professionals and carers who look after them.The Queen observed the Founder's Day parade, making her entrance through the Octagon doors. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Taking her position on the dais, Camilla received a Royal Salute before carrying out her inspection duties and observing the March Past and Royal Hospital Collect.Queen Camilla delivered an address acknowledging that King Charles II had founded the site more than three centuries ago as a place of refuge and shelter, noting from her own visits that this purpose endures today.The Queen revealed she had gleaned some insider knowledge from off-the-record conversations with residents, including tales of secretive gin bars, port associations and the feeding of foxes, done at night to dodge the Quartermaster.She also praised the veterans' mastery of the gentlemanly stroll — which she defined as meaning I am not rushing for anyone, even the Governor.The annual parade commemorates the vision of King Charles II, who founded the Royal Hospital in 1682 to provide sanctuary for soldiers broken by age or war.Traditionally held around 29 May, the date marks both the monarch's birthday and his legendary escape following the Battle of Worcester, when he evaded capture by concealing himself in an oak tree.This historic moment is honoured through a distinctive tradition: every Pensioner taking part in the parade adorns their uniform with oak leaves.The statue of King Charles II standing in Figure Court receives special treatment each year as part of the commemorative festivities.For this year's celebration, the monument has been surrounded by young potted oak trees, adding a fresh element to the centuries-old custom.The ceremony concluded with three cheers and the National Anthem, after which Her Majesty visited the Wren Chapel to sign the visitor's book.The Royal Hospital Chelsea has served as the permanent home for Chelsea Pensioners — retired British Army soldiers — since 1692.Spanning 66 acres in central London, the institution operates both as a national landmark and a registered charity.Beyond caring for its resident veterans, the Royal Hospital runs a Veterans Outreach programme designed to support former service personnel in the wider community.The site welcomes members of the public through various initiatives, including tours led by the Pensioners themselves and events staged at the Soane Stable Yard.These activities allow visitors to connect with the history and heritage of the institution whilst contributing to the welfare of those who have served in the Armed Forces. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter