Queen Elizabeth II has drawn on her memories of the Second World War, to deliver a powerful message of unity to the people of the UK, and the Commonwealth, during the global coronavirus pandemic.
The address, made from Windsor Castle, was the fourth of its kind the Queen has made during her 75-year reign.
Her Majesty opened the speech by thanking British healthcare workers and those on the frontline of the crisis.
“I want to thank everyone on the NHS frontline as well as care workers and those carrying out essential work who carry out their duties outside the home.”
The Queen also thanked the people of Britain and the people of Commonwealth to their commitment to social distancing.
“I also want to thank those of you who are staying at home thereby helping to protect the vulnerable.”
“Together we are tackling the disease and if we remain united and resolute we will overcome it.”
Her Majesty then reflected on her first-ever speech to the British people, made in October 1940 as a 14-year-old girl.
The then Princess Elizabeth and her sister, Princess Margaret, made a special speech on the wireless, to the children who were evacuated from British cities, urging them to have courage.
“We, as children, spoke from here at Windsor to children who had been evacuated from their homes and sent away for their own safety,” Her Majesty said.
“Today, once again, many will feel a painful separation from their loved ones, but now, as then, we know deep down it is the right thing to do.”
“We should take comfort that while we may have more still to endure, better days will return: we will be with our friends again; we will be with our families again; we will meet again.”
