Never underestimate how much you're valued, Duke of Edinburgh tells Chelsea Pensioners
The Duke of Edinburgh has carried out a review of Chelsea Pensioners at this year's Founder's Parade – with everyone braving the heavy rain.
Despite the showers and grey skies, around 300 veterans were still able to celebrate the 333rd anniversary of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Five of the pensioners in this year's cohort are more than 100, and the average age is 82.
Staff and onlookers remarked that the celebrations were the wettest in 18 years, but still enjoyed the ceremony under the cover of umbrellas.
The crowd heard colourful renditions of Walking on Sunshine and Mr Blue Sky by the Band of the Irish Guards before a medley of John Williams' symphonic marches featuring music from Star Wars.
In his speech, Prince Edward called the hospital an "impeccable institution", praising residents for maintaining such a standard and telling them to "never underestimate how much [they] are valued".
Extending the best wishes of King Charles, he thanked them for their service to the country.
The Duke gave a special mention to those at the parade who had been present at VE Day in 1945, as 10 of the current pensioners had served in the Second World War.
To those who served in other conflicts, the Duke remarked: "We may not commemorate them in the same way, but the debt we owe to you and your families is just as great."
As the rain on the parade grew stronger, the governor of the hospital, General Sir Adrian Bradshaw, followed the Duke in celebrating the occasion.
He welcomed attendees, particularly two American veterans who had joined for the anniversary, adding that this was a good chance to reflect on the importance of alliance, unity and strength in the face of today's threats.
Speeches concluded with three cheers from the pensioners to the original founder – King Charles II – followed by three cheers for the King, and a final three cheers for the Reviewing Officer, the Duke of Edinburgh.
Several of the East End's Pearly Kings and Queens also attended the service, representing one of the oldest charities in London.
Gen Sir Adrian accompanied Prince Edward in his inspection of the parade, where he spoke to several pensioners, including Mike Davies, who served with the Royal Hussars.
Mr Davies said the Duke was a "really nice chap" adding that "he could quite easily not have come because of the weather", but still showed up to support the veterans.
"It's the biggest event of the year," said Mr Davies, who said he was very proud to have become a Chelsea Pensioner. "This event is tremendous," he continued, "very moving."
Origins of the Royal Hospital Chelsea
Originally commissioned in 1682 by King Charles II, the hospital began admitting pensioners 10 years later during the reign of King William and Queen Mary.
King Charles II also approved the scarlet coat worn by the Chelsea Pensioners, which continues to this day.
While traditionally a male-only institution, women have been admitted as pensioners since 2009.
Attendees at the parade wore oak leaves, a reference to the tree King Charles II hid in when escaping parliamentary forces in 1651.
Join Our Newsletter
