HRH The Duke of Kent steps down as president of CWGC
As president, The Duke supported the work of the CWGC and travelled widely to visit its sites in Australia, France, Belgium, Ireland and Bulgaria
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) has announced that HRH The Duke of Kent has officially handed over the presidency of the commission to HRH The Princess Royal.
This comes after The Duke of Kent has held the role of president since February 1970. Throughout his tenure, the Duke visited many of the commission’s sites, met its staff around the world and represented the commissions at some of the largest events in its history.
As president, The Duke also supported the work of the CWGC and travelled widely to visit its sites in Australia, France, Belgium, Ireland and Bulgaria.
The Duke of Kent said: “As president of the CWGC for over 50 years, it has been a privilege and an honour to work closely with those who strive to preserve the legacy and memory of our fallen is not lost.
“I look forward to watching as Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal champions this remarkable organisation which ensures future generations continue to commemorate the sacrifice of the men and women of the Commonwealth.”
Claire Horton CBE, CWGC director general, added: “While we are saddened by his departure, we give thanks for his dedication, service and support as our president, and we remember with great fondness the many moments we have shared over the years.”
In addition, His Majesty The King has also become the commission’s patron, the first in CWGC history and is His Majesty’s first new patronage since accession.