William and Kate conducted another engagement this afternoon (16th September 2022).
The Prince and Princess of Wales visited ATC Pirbright in Woking, Guildford to meet the troops taking part in Queen’s funeral on Monday (19th September 2022).
The pair met soldiers deployed from Canada, Australia and New Zealand—all Commonwealth countries, of course.
The soldiers have gathered at Pirbright to rehearse their roles in the ceremony on Monday.
William and Kate met with and thanked senior representatives of the defence staff and servicepeople from each nation.
Upon arrival, members of the New Zealand Defence Force performed a Haka, a Māori ceremonial dance.
William and Kate remarked that it’s been “strange” to go from celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee to preparing for her funeral in just three months.
This is the fourth time we’ve seen the couple since the passing of Her Majesty eight days ago.
(Above, from left-right: 1) William and Kate looking at floral tributes left outside Sandringham yesterday. 2) William and Kate at a service in Westminster Hall following The Procession of the Queen’s Coffin on Wednesday. 3) William, Kate, Harry and Meghan look at the tributes left outside Windsor Castle on Saturday).
Army Training Centre Pirbright is the UK’s largest basic training establishment for the British Army. The army training centre delivers a 14-week training course known as the Common Military Syllabus. It’s completed by all adult recruits who join the Army.
You may recall Kate attended an army training day at the centre in November last year? The palace kept the engagement secret until Armed Forces Day 2022, three months ago.
Back in June, Kate published a message to her official social media accounts marking the occasion. She accompanied the message with three new photographs taking during the visit (pictured above) It’s understood Kate took part in a few training activities and chatted with personnel about their experiences in of serving in the army.
Let’s take a brief look at Kate’s outfit now. During the mourning period, I won’t be giving my usual full rundowns. I’m just adding a quick overview for those seeking the information. The Princess looked immaculate in a black military-inspired wool coat with epaulettes on the shoulders. The garment is by Catherine Walker. Kate wore it to the National Service of Remembrance in 2020, though she has now removed the fringing from the shoulders. She paired the coat with a new pair of Russell & Bromley pointed block heeled court shoes, carried her black Mulberry Amberley handbag and wore the Queen’s “Silver Jubilee” earrings—likely in tribute to the late monarch.
They have had a busy week. I am impressed with how they have dealt with this sad situation. They must be tired, but they have been gracious to all the people they have met during this mourning period.
As for fashion: great hair and the coat looks better without the fringe.