LONDON (AP) — The Princess of Wales, Kate, expressed her regret for missing the final rehearsal before the Trooping the Color parade, an annual event in honor of the king's birthday. As the honorary colonel of the Irish Guards, Kate extended her well wishes to the regiment as she continues her recovery from cancer.
In a letter shared by the Irish Guards on social media, Kate conveyed her apologies for not being able to participate in this year's Colonel's Review. She expressed her gratitude for the honor of being their colonel and hoped to represent them again soon.
The Colonel's Review serves as a dress rehearsal for the Trooping the Color parade, a longstanding tradition held each June to celebrate the monarch's official birthday. King Charles III is set to preside over the ceremony on June 15.
Following her cancer diagnosis announced in March, Kate has been undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Her absence from public appearances had sparked speculation about her health, but she remains optimistic about returning to her duties.
King Charles III, who is also undergoing cancer treatment, recently participated in commemorations for the 80th anniversary of D-Day. Trooping the Color involves troops parading in full dress uniform past the king, showcasing their ceremonial flag or “color.”
During the rehearsal, the Irish Guards, donning their distinctive red tunics and bearskin caps, marched in precision at Horse Guards Parade in central London. The event featured a military band playing the national anthem and the regiment's mascot, an Irish wolfhound named Seamus.
Unlike the previous year when several guardsmen fainted due to extreme heat, this year's rehearsal took place on a pleasant day. The Irish Guards expressed their appreciation for Kate's letter and wished her a speedy recovery.
As the colonel of the regiment since 2022, Kate succeeded her husband, Prince William, who was appointed as the colonel of the Welsh Guards. The upcoming Trooping the Color ceremony is anticipated to be a significant event, with King Charles III expected to attend alongside Queen Camilla.
