Princess Anne visited God’s Acre veteran’s cemetery in Esquimalt, B.C., as part of her three-day West Coast visit. The cemetery is a national historic site dating back to 1868, with more than 2,500 military personnel and family members buried there. Princess Anne is the president of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, which cares for war memorials and cemeteries around the world. Her visit to the cemetery grounds held great significance as she laid a wreath to commemorate the veterans.
During her visit to Canada, Princess Anne also participated in the commissioning of the first Arctic patrol vessel for Canada’s Pacific fleet, HMCS Max Bernays, in North Vancouver. She arrived in Esquimalt Harbour on the ship, wearing a Canadian navy uniform and participating in the welcoming ceremony with a 21-gun salute. Royal enthusiasts and navy followers gathered on the shores to catch a glimpse of the princess as she arrived on the ship, where she spent the night after the commission ceremony.
The official introduction of HMCS Max Bernays into the fleet included symbolic presentations and ceremonies, such as the keys to the ship being presented to the commanding officer, Commander Collin Forsberg, and the breaking of the ship’s commissioning pennant. Commander Forsberg stated that the patrol vessel was designed for exercising Canadian sovereignty in northern waters. Named after a Canadian naval hero from the Second World War, the introduction of the ship will help the navy meet future defence challenges in the North.
Princess Anne’s visit also included attending a commemorative service for the Battle of the Atlantic at the B.C. legislature. Additionally, she visited the Royal Victoria Yacht Club and met with members of the Victoria Therapeutic Riding Association. The tour of the cemetery grounds by Princess Anne showcased her commitment to commemorating and honoring the sacrifices of military personnel. David Loveridge, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission director, emphasized the importance of her presence in Canada to commemorate the veterans buried at God’s Acre cemetery.
The visit by Princess Anne to Canada and her involvement in various events, including the commissioning of HMCS Max Bernays and the tour of God’s Acre cemetery, highlighted her role as the president of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and her dedication to honoring the memory of Commonwealth casualties. The events she participated in during her West Coast visit showcased her commitment to supporting military personnel and their families. Princess Anne’s presence in Canada served as a symbol of remembrance and gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans throughout history.
Overall, Princess Anne’s visit to Canada was marked by ceremonial events, visits to significant locations, and opportunities to meet with various organizations. Her participation in the commissioning of HMCS Max Bernays, the commemorative service for the Battle of the Atlantic, and the visit to the God’s Acre veteran’s cemetery demonstrated her respect for military history and her commitment to honoring the sacrifices of servicemen and women. The significance of her visit was underscored by her role as the president of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and her dedication to preserving the memory of those who served in conflicts around the world.
