His Majesty The King becomes first patron of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission

His Majesty The King has today become our Patron, the first in CWGC history. This is His Majesty’s first new Patronage since Accession. 

His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent, who has been President of the CWGC since 1970, has also today officially handed the Presidency over to Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal.

The King has long been a supporter of our work, attending events and visiting our sites around the world on numerous occasions. Most recently, on a recent State Visit to Kenya, His Majesty was joined by The Queen in visiting the Commonwealth War Graves’ Kariokor Cemetery in Nairobi. 

Their Majesties joined British and Kenyan military personnel in an act of remembrance, before hearing about the Commission’s recent work to ensure all those who supported the Commonwealth's efforts in both World Wars are commemorated.

This change comes as our President The Duke of Kent is stepping down after more than 50 years of service.

Our new President, The Princess Royal said:

“In recording and maintaining the graves of the men and women from across the Commonwealth who died during both World Wars, the CWGC plays a significant role in commemorating those who sacrificed so much for our future. Their cemeteries, large or small, always have an impact. 

I am honoured to become President of this organisation and know that I have a challenge in continuing the dedicated work of His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent for over 50 years. Preserving the legacy of those from across the Commonwealth who gave their future in order to preserve ours is a privilege. We will remember them”.

The Duke of Kent said: 

“As President of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission for over 50 years, it has been a privilege and an honour to work closely with those who strive to preserve the legacy and memory of our fallen is not lost.

I look forward to watching on as Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal champions this remarkable organisation which ensures future generations continue to commemorate the sacrifice of the men and women of the Commonwealth”. 

Claire Horton CBE, our Director General, said: “The Commonwealth War Graves Commission has long benefited from the interest and support of our Royal Family, but today it is doubly wonderful to welcome His Majesty The King as our first Royal Patron, and Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal as our President.”

“It is a truly great honour for everyone connected to our remarkable organisation and we look forward to sharing our many exciting plans with them as CWGC takes its place as a global leader in sustainable and inclusive commemoration for all time.”