I salute you all: Queen Camilla delivers special message on Armed Forces Day

The Queen has paid tribute to the military's determination and loyalty in a special message recorded by BFBS, Forces News' parent charity, to celebrate Armed Forces Day.

Speaking from Clarence House, Camilla thanked the Armed Forces for everything they do to protect the country.

"Your determination, unrelenting efforts and selfless loyalty to each other and to the United Kingdom are as enduring as our gratitude," she said.

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Camilla wore a Royal Lancers brooch while delivering her message.

This was a nod to both her role as Colonel-in-Chief of the regiment and her father Major Bruce Shand, who served with the 12th Lancers - one of the unit's antecedent regiments - during the Second World War.

Her father's medals, including a Military Cross and Bar awarded for his gallantry during the retreat to Dunkirk in 1940 and at the Second Battle of El Alamein in North Africa in 1942, can be seen beside the Queen on display next to a photo of the King in Royal Navy uniform.

The Queen explained that as a "proud daughter of an Army officer", she too knew something of the impact military life has on loved ones, praising those who "keep the home fires burning" while personnel are deployed overseas.

"You too are heroes," she said.

The Queen remembered those "who made the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of stability and peace around the world" and reflected on her recent experiences in Normandy alongside the King for the commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

"We were reminded of the incredible bravery of the Allied land, sea and air forces whose combined endeavours brought about the liberation of Western Europe and in whose debt we shall forever be," she said.

"Eight decades later, I know that that same spirit and those same qualities remain much in evidence throughout our Armed Forces as you undertake your duties in the face of a multitude of challenges and dangers.

"In so doing, you not only protect these isles, but also defend liberties way beyond these shores."

The Queen, who is patron of BFBS, added: "In times of war and in times of peace, whether seen or unseen, our Armed Forces support and strengthen our nation.

"You are a source of inspiration, reassurance and pride.

"And I salute you all."

Armed Forces Day is celebrated annually and gives members of the public the chance to show their support for the military.

This year military displays, parades and entertainment are taking place in more than 100 locations across the UK.

To also mark Armed Forces Day, a new portrait of the King wearing his Field Marshal No1 full ceremonial frock coat with medals, sword and decorations was unveiled.

The photograph was taken in the Grand Corridor at Windsor Castle.