In a poignant display of respect and remembrance, the Duke of Kent, at the age of 90, recently attended the funeral of Field Marshal Lord Guthrie. This event, held at Westminster Cathedral, brought together a notable gathering of individuals, each with their own connections to the military and the royal family.
Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, joined the mourners, demonstrating his continued dedication to public service and remembrance. He was seen alongside Andrew Parker Bowles, the former husband of Queen Camilla, and other prominent figures such as Debbie Jevans and Michael Portillo. This event occurred merely weeks after the Duke of Kent bid a final farewell to his late wife, the Duchess of Kent, at the same cathedral.
Field Marshal Lord Guthrie, who passed away at 86 years old on September 18th, held some of the most senior positions within the Armed Forces. He served as Chief of the General Staff from 1994 to 1997 and later as Chief of the Defence Staff from 1997 to 2001. His military career also included roles as Colonel Commandant of the Special Air Service from 2001 to 2010, Colonel of The Life Guards from 1998 to 2019, and Gold Stick in Waiting to the late Queen from 1999 to 2019. Lord Guthrie's legacy is further marked by his marriage to Catherine Worrall in 1971, with whom he had sons, David and Andrew. Catherine passed away in 2022.
But here's where it gets interesting... The Duke of Kent, having retired from the Army as a Lieutenant-Colonel in 1976, maintains close ties to the military. While he has reduced his public commitments in recent years, his presence at such events underscores his enduring connection to the armed forces and the royal family.
Last week, the Duke celebrated his 90th birthday on October 9th. The royal family, including Prince William and Princess Kate, shared well-wishes on social media, including a previously unseen photograph of the King and the Duke at Buckingham Palace after the coronation in 2023.
And this is the part most people miss... The Duke's recent birthday celebration was an intimate affair, held at Ognisko Polskie in South Kensington, with his brother, Prince Michael of Kent, among the guests. This gathering highlights the close-knit nature of the royal family and their continued support for one another.
What do you think about the Duke of Kent's continued presence at such significant events, even as he approaches his 90s? Do you see it as a testament to his dedication and sense of duty, or do you believe there's a different interpretation?
