As King Charles continues his brave battle against cancer, the ailing Monarch has openly shared his feelings of disappointment over being unable to fulfill his royal duties.
The revelation came through a statement delivered by Princess Anne, his sister, during a reception at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday, March 19, commemorating the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War.
Addressing the distinguished guests gathered for the occasion, Princess Anne conveyed the sentiments of her brother, who had prepared a speech for the event.
“It has been a personal ambition of mine to invite you all, in some form, to Buckingham Palace to recognise this significant milestone and ensure you are all most deservingly honoured for your valiant service over seventy years ago,” she began.
“You might therefore imagine how particularly disappointed and frustrated I am to not be able to join you all in person…
“I can only hope that you are being well looked after in my absence and I am most grateful to the Princess Royal and the Duchess of Edinburgh for standing in for me.”
Acknowledging the sacrifices made by the veterans present and their comrades who fought alongside them, the speech emphasised the enduring legacy of the Korean War.
“Thanks to those of you present, and those you fought alongside, the free peoples of the Republic of Korea continue to experience democratic liberty and have proudly preserved peace ever since,” she said.
“This enduring legacy was further commemorated during the recent Korean State Visit, when President Yoon himself declared that Korea would not have the political freedom, economic prosperity and flourishing culture today, that has extended far beyond its borders, without your bravery all those years ago.
“It is our duty to remember what was once called ‘the Forgotten War’.”
The King’s message also highlighted the upcoming commemorative events honouring the veterans and fallen soldiers of the Korean War, emphasising the importance of remembering their bravery and sacrifices in a world where freedoms are constantly challenged.
“Next month, like every year, your fellow veterans will meet in Solma-Ri, Gapyeong and Busan to commemorate the Battles of the Imjin and Gapyeong and to remember those who fell in the service of the United Nations Command on the Korean Peninsula,” Anne continued.
“In a world where freedoms are continually being challenged and our values scrutinised, your selfless courage and steadfast pursuit of peace are guiding principles which have not been forgotten and continue to inspire generations to come.
“We salute all those who remain among us, and offer our most heartfelt and undying gratitude for those who have gone before. Your service and your sacrifice will echo through the ages.”
In light of his diagnosis, King Charles has postponed all public-facing duties but is continuing with work behind-the-scenes as he undergoes treatment.
Just 17 months into his reign, King Charles received the startling diagnosis.
The news of the Monarch’s health sent shockwaves globally when, following his three night stay in hospital for a procedure on a benign enlarged prostate, a separate issue was identified. The Palace later confirmed, through a statement, that subsequent tests revealed the presence of cancer, emphasising it’s unrelated to the previous prostate problem.
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted. Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer,” the statement read.
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties. Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.
“The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible.
“His Majesty has chosen to share his diagnosis to prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”