The Duchess of Edinburgh made an unannounced appearance ahead of Remembrance Day, joining members of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) for a ceremony.
As Colonel-in-Chief of REME, Sophie attended the unveiling of a new memorial at the Royal British Legion National Remembrance Gardens.
The gathering brought together serving personnel, veterans and their families to remember the fallen and pay tribute to the Corps’ long history of service.
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Taking pride of place was a rearing stallion sculpture, crafted by 26 REME metalsmiths. The impressive creation pays tribute to the Corps’ heritage and recognises generations of personnel whose dedication and sacrifice have shaped its history.
It also coincided with REME’s 84th birthday, as members of the Corps came together to celebrate their shared history while remembering those who never returned home.
The British Army later shared photographs from the engagement on Instagram, revealing Sophie’s previously unannounced visit.
Its post described how the family had gathered to “remember, reflect and honour” those who had made the ultimate sacrifice.
Speaking about the annual Memorial Day, Colonel Iain Wallace OBE ADC, Corps Colonel REME, said it was an opportunity to pause and remember those who had given their lives for the nation.
