Opening of the exhibition 'Women and War', Imperial War Museum, 14 October 2003
Published
Over the two World Wars and in the many conflicts since then, women in Britain and throughout the Commonwealth have faced and overcome all manner of challenges.
Mr. Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted to launch the 'Women and War' Exhibition which shows how important the role of women has been in time of war. Over the two World Wars and in the many conflicts since then, women in Britain and throughout the Commonwealth have faced and overcome all manner of challenges.
From my experience as a 2nd Subaltern in the ATS I began to understand the esprit de corps that flourishes in the face of adversity and forges friendships which last a lifetime.
Throughout my reign I have watched with admiration how women in the three Services and many related organisations have taken on wider responsibilities and ever more demanding roles on land, on sea and in the air.
This exhibition is a tribute to their spirit and to that vital contribution made by women in the past, present and, I am certain, in the challenging future which lies ahead.
I believe that 'Women and War' will generate great interest both in the United Kingdom and abroad. I am pleased to declare the exhibition open.
Related content


The Queen's Commonwealth Day Message 2021
Stirring examples of courage, commitment and selfless dedication to duty have been demonstrated in every Commonwealth nation and territory.
A message from Her Majesty The Queen on the 75th anniversary of VJ day
May the memory of their sacrifice and bravery remain with us always.


The Queen's 2020 Commonwealth Day Message
Such a blend of traditions serves to make us stronger, individually and collectively, by providing the ingredients needed for social, political and economic resilience


A speech by The Countess of Wessex celebrating the work of The Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Trust
On behalf of the people The Trust has helped thank you to each and every one of you for all your incredible support, and to Your Majesty thank you for choosing to give the...


The 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings




The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2018


The Queen's speech at the commissioning ceremony of HMS Queen Elizabeth
HMS Queen Elizabeth embodies the best of British technology and innovation – a true flagship for the 21st century



Prince Harry delivers a message from The Queen at RAF Honnington
The presentation of Colours is an opportunity to recognise historic achievements and to look forward to the future with confidence; a confidence built upon the dedication of...
A Message from Her Majesty The Queen on the opening of the 2017 Commonwealth Science Conference
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to the Commonwealth Science Conference in Singapore following the success of the Bangalore Conference in 2014. I am very grateful...


The Queen addresses The Royal Lancers at Windsor Castle
You have established yourselves as a unified Regiment and a force without match







A message from Her Majesty The Queen to the people of Barbados on the 50th Anniversary of Independence
Since you became an independent country in 1966, you have continued to flourish and grow into a strong and confident nation.
A speech by Prince Harry on the Queen's Commonwealth Canopy dedication in St Lucia
On behalf of my grandmother, The Queen, I am grateful to the Government and the people of St. Lucia for this most generous contribution.



The Queen's Response to the Chief Engineer, on the Corps of Royal Engineers 300th anniversary
I would wish all Sappers, wherever they may be, every success and good fortune in the future



A speech by The Queen at the Royal Artillery Tercentenary Parade on 26th May, 2016
The Royal Regiment of Artillery has since 1716 proudly served the Nation all over the World and I wish all Gunners every success and good fortune in the future
