Special Jubilee message to the Armed Services
Published 25/06/2002
I am pleased to have the opportunity, on the occasion of this Golden Jubilee, to pay a special tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces, and to express my personal appreciation for the support which you have given me, and my family, over many years.
I spoke earlier this year of the timeless values which characterise Britain: moderation, tolerance, and service to others. These characteristics, as well as others - courage, dignity, and pride - are especially apparent, and highly regarded, in the Armed Forces.
Like all parts of our society, you have experienced much change over the last fifty years. The threats we face have been transformed. But conflict, and the threat of conflict, are still with us.
I would like to mention, at this time, the men and women of all three Services engaged in the campaign against international terrorism, particularly those involved in operations in Afghanistan, or deployed at sea in the region. The logistical role of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary may not be widely recognised, but is essential.
I acknowledge, too, the work of the airmen and airwomen who, with others, are helping defend those in northern and southern Iraq; and the work of those recently in service in Sierra Leone or East Timor, or deployed in peacekeeping operations in Cyprus, Bosnia, Kosovo, and elsewhere.
And of course I would like to send my greetings to all of you undertaking the customary, but vital military tasks at home, be it in our airspace and seas, in Northern Ireland, or in The Falklands and other Dependent Territories.
The regard in which the Armed Forces are held in the UK, and around the world, is probably as high as it has ever been over the last fifty years. This is, in part, because of the critical role you play, day in and day out, in our society.
Everyone whose home you have helped save from fire or flood, or who saw you at work during the ravages of Foot and Mouth Disease, has reason to be thankful for your professionalism. It is also because the Services themselves increasingly reflect the makeup of our diverse society.
And you build on the work of those who have gone before. In Britain we remember those no longer serving, including those who have died for their country; for we in this nation have a deep and abiding respect for our past.
So today I would like to thank all of you for your part in defending Britain, and preserving peace around the world. I cannot think of a worthier task. My thoughts are with you all, wherever you may be. And my prayers are with your friends and families, without whose love and support you would not be able to do your duty. May God be with you all.
Related content
A speech by The Queen at the Presentation of new Colours to the RAF
I hand over my Colour with confidence that you will guard it well, just as you continue to guard your heritage, ethos and unique contribution to Defence.
A speech by The Queen to The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, 2008
As a nation we maintain a deep and enduring gratitude for the selfless work undertaken by our Armed Forces, and to their families who endure so much.
A speech by The Queen to the Royal Tank Regiment, 2008
My best wishes to you all, and 'Fear Naught'.
A speech by The Queen at the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth
My grandfather, father, husband and two sons have all undergone training here, and I have had many visits over the years.
The Queen's message of sympathy to Bangladesh following Cyclone Sidr
Diamond Wedding Anniversary: Service of Celebration at Westminster Abbey
The Queen's message of sympathy to those affected by flooding in the UK
A speech by The Queen at Imperial College
By discharging this academic mission, you play a vital role in supporting this country's position on the world stage.
The Queen's message to counties affected by severe flooding in the UK
A speech by The Queen to the Honourable Artillery Company, 2007
I am entrusting these new colours, which chronicle so much of the Regiment's history, to your safekeeping.
A speech by The Queen at the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge
The Canadian Corps transformed Vimy Ridge from a symbol of despair into a source of inspiration.
A speech by The Queen to the Royal Irish Regiment, Northern Ireland, 2006
Your contribution to peace and stability within Northern Ireland has been unique.
Message of condolence to Mr Whatumoana Paki, Turangawaewae Maree
A speech by The Queen at Mansion House for Her Majesty's 80th Birthday
As Groucho Marx once said "Anyone can get old - all you have to do is to live long enough". And there are in my view many other anniversaries this year which are more...
A speech by The Queen at the Royal Hospital Chelsea's Founder's Day Parade, 2006
You are a shining illustration of the history of the British Army and of this great institution.
Presentation of Colours to the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, 4 May 2006
In a Regiment with such a rich family tradition it must give considerable cause for pride and satisfaction that the present generation of Welsh Guardsmen loses nothing in...
Sovereign's Parade, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, 12 April 2006
This day marks the beginning of what I hope will be highly successful careers as officers in the British Army or the armies of our friends and allies.
State Visit, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, 7 March 2006
I have vivid and happy memories of my visit to Brazil with Prince Philip in 1968, especially the warmth and hospitality of the Brazilian people.
State banquet in Malta, 23 November 2005
We both retain a deep affection for your country and the outgoing, generous Maltese people who have always offered us the hand of friendship.
Norway State Banquet, 25 October 2005
I remember the bonfires along the coastline as we arrived and the enthusiastic welcome we received as guests of your grandfather, King Haakon.
Dinner in HMS Victory, 200th anniversary of Trafalgar, 21 October 2005
Success at Trafalgar was by no means a foregone conclusion.
Message to the President of Pakistan following the earthquake
Message to the President of the USA following Hurricane Katrina
World War II commemorative event, Horse Guards Parade, 10 July 2005
An act of remembrance is an act of honour.
Royal London Hospital, following terrorist bombs in London, 8 July 2005
Atrocities such as these simply reinforce our sense of community, our humanity, and our trust in the rule of law. That is the clear message from us all.
Message to congratulate the successful London 2012 Olympic bid team
Centenary of Alberta joining Confederation, Alberta Legislature, Canada, 24 May 2005
While all Albertans — and all Canadians — value this history as a colourful account of the past, we also view it as a foundation for our present and future.
Federal lunch in Regina, Saskatchewan, 20 May 2005
I retain a deep affection for this great country and for the people who take such pride in saying "I am Canadian".
Marking 60th anniversary of the end of World War II in Guernsey, 9 May 2005
Prince Philip and I are happy to be in Guernsey on this sixtieth anniversary of liberation and to have joined in the Service of Thanksgiving
Visit to Jersey to mark the 60th anniversary of Liberation, 9 May 2005
I am pleased that so many people are present today for whom the 9th of May has such a personal significance.
Message to the public following their response to tsunami appeal
Message to the Foreign Secretary following the Boxing Day tsunami
State Banquet, President of the Republic of Korea, 1 December 2004
I was struck by the spirit of the Korean people, and their determination to overcome adversity
Statement by The Queen following death of HRH Princess Alice
A speech by The Queen at the opening of a memorial fountain to the late Diana, Princess of Wales
You have given the Park, at the very heart of our capital city that Diana knew so well, a highly original memorial which captures something of the essence of a remarkable...
60th anniversary D-Day commemoration in Arromanches, 6 June 2004
I take it upon myself to express the immense debt of gratitude we owe to you all. I salute you, and thank you on behalf of our whole nation.
Official commemoration of the 60th anniversary of D-Day in France, 6 June 2004
The sixtieth anniversary of the Normandy Landings is a moment for thanksgiving, and a moment of commemoration.
Osborne House, Isle of Wight, centenary of being open to the public, 19 May 2004
The Isle of Wight is well known for its hospitality, and the warmth of your welcome today is greatly appreciated.
State Banquet, President of the United States of America, 19 November 2003
We share the confidence - and the courage - to try and make this a more prosperous, a safer, and above all a freer world.
Opening of the new Australian War Memorial, London, 11 November 2003
Twice within the span of a single generation, Australia and Britain stood side by side in two of the bloodiest wars in human history.
Opening of the exhibition 'Women and War', Imperial War Museum, 14 October 2003
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.
Presentation of new colours to the Fleet in Plymouth, 23 July 2003
I hope this Colour will be a symbol of the Fleet's enduring spirit and devotion to duty in times of stress and danger
Presentation of new standards to the Household Cavalry, 21 May 2003
We as a nation are intensely proud of our armed forces and never more so than in recent weeks.
Ottawa, Canada, 13 October 2002
Wherever the future may take us, my admiration and affection for Canada and Canadians everywhere is - and will always remain - clear, strong and sure.
