Prince William and Kate Middleton Receive New Honors From King Charles
The royal family is going through a difficult time right now with both the King and Princess of Wales receiving cancer treatment. But in a sign that there is also still business as usual, Buckingham Palace announced today that Queen Camilla, Prince William, and the Princess of Wales have all received new honors from King Charles.
In a series of new appointments effective starting today, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Kate Middleton have all been given key roles within the British honors system; the system designed to award those who have made exceptional contributions to public life. Queen Camilla has been made Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, a role previously held by consorts Prince Philip and Queen Mary. Prince William has been made Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, a role that was held by Charles until he became King. And the Princess of Wales has been named as Royal Companion of The Order of the Companions of Honour, which Buckingham Palace described as a new appointment.
Camilla’s position puts her at the helm of the Order of the British Empire, which was established by King George V in 1917 to honor people from across society who have made exceptional achievements. William’s role is linked to the Order of the Bath which King George I established in 1725 and can be awarded to members of the military or civil service for their work. Kate’s appointment is attached to the Order of Companions of Honour, which was founded by King George V in 1917 to recognized achievements in the arts, sciences, medicine, and public service.
The appointments are natural progressions for these royals in their more senior roles since Queen Elizabeth’s death. They are also another reminder of how the future of the monarchy lies with William, Kate and eventually their children.
Four new members of the Order of the Garter—the most senior order of chivalry in Britain set up by Edward III in 1348—were also announced today. The Duchess of Gloucester, Air Chief Marshal the Lord Peach, Lord Kakkar, and Lord Andrew Lloyd-Webber have been appointed to the Garter, taking the number of members to 21. These personal appointments from the King will see the members able to join the annual Garter procession in the grounds of Windsor Castle.
You Might Also Like
