King Charles Honors Son Prince William on Special Anniversary

The King shared a touching reference to his son, the Prince of Wales, during an appearance in Wales with the Queen.

At 75 years old, Charles delivered a speech marking the 25th anniversary of the Senedd, the Welsh Parliament. He took the opportunity to speak about Prince William’s growing connection with Wales.

The King said, “It is a milestone on a journey which has been my privilege, all my life, to share with you – during times which have seen great change, profound sorrow, and tremendous achievement. Through it all, my respect and affection for the people of this ancient land have deepened with every passing year.”

The former Prince of Wales added, “It has given me great pleasure to see my son’s relationship with this special land continue, including returning only this week to Anglesey – Ynys Mon – a place which I know means so much to him.”

“So, it is with countless special memories and particular pride that I am able to join you as we reflect upon the last quarter-century of the history we have shared, and which you – in your work in this Senedd – have the great responsibility of making.”

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William, who took on the title of Prince of Wales in September 2022, lived with his wife Kate on Anglesey as newlyweds. He served as an RAF search and rescue pilot at RAF Valley from 2010 to 2013.

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The future king, now 42, was reunited with his flying instructor during a nostalgic visit on Tuesday. It marked his first trip back to the base after becoming Royal Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Valley in August, a role he took over from the King.

Charles made his return to the Senedd for the first time since September 2022, following his accession to the throne and the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

He and Camilla were welcomed with a guard of honour from the Royal Welsh and a crowd of enthusiastic schoolchildren.

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The King donned a navy blue suit with a striped tie, while the Queen looked elegant in a pale pink coat dress topped with a wide-brimmed raffia hat.

Inside the Senedd, the royal couple met with party and parliamentary leaders and enjoyed a performance by the King’s new harpist, Mared Pugh-Evans, in her debut performance in the position.

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The establishment of the National Assembly for Wales in 1999 marked a significant moment, as many powers previously held by the UK Government were transferred to Wales.

Known today as the Senedd, the institution has evolved over the years. It is now a mature parliament with the authority to make laws in several key areas.