Princess Anne concluded her first day in Australia by laying a wreath during a Remembrance Day ceremony, honoring the centenary of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals. The ceremony, held at Victoria Barracks in Sydney, recognized the significant contributions of the corps to the Australian Defence Force over the past century. As Colonel-in-Chief, a title she has held since 1977, Princess Anne praised the dedication and innovation of the soldiers who serve in this essential unit.
Honoring a Century of Service
Speaking to a crowd of approximately 900 people, many of whom were current and former members of the corps, Princess Anne stated, “One hundred years of service, innovation and dedication is a remarkable milestone, and it is indeed a privilege, as your colonel in chief, to share in this occasion.” She highlighted the vital role the corps has played in various military operations, from the trenches of the First World War to contemporary missions worldwide. “Your work has enabled communications, co-ordination and connectivity, often under the most challenging circumstances,” she added.
The Princess Royal emphasized the corps’ motto, “Certa Cito,” which translates to “swift and sure,” underscoring the professionalism and reliability that define its contributions to Australia’s security. She also acknowledged the families of corps members, past and present, whose support is crucial for service personnel to perform their duties with dedication.
Princess Anne’s Visit Amid Family Scrutiny
Earlier in the day, Princess Anne visited the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, where she delivered a reading in remembrance of those who served. Her visit to Australia comes at a time of heightened scrutiny surrounding the royal family, particularly following recent actions taken by her brother, King Charles. He has stripped their sibling, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, of his titles due to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
According to a statement from Buckingham Palace, Andrew’s titles were revoked as part of a necessary measure, despite his continued denial of the allegations against him. The palace expressed their utmost sympathy for the victims of abuse, stating, “Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”
Andrew’s ties to Epstein have faced ongoing scrutiny, particularly after allegations from American-Australian Virginia Giuffre, who claimed she was trafficked to him as a teenager. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Recently, Democratic members of the House Committee on Oversight in the United States have summoned him to testify as part of investigations into Epstein.
As Princess Anne continues her visit, she is scheduled to participate in a series of military events across Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane in the coming days, further highlighting her commitment to her role within the Australian military community.
