King Charles gave a keynote address during his latest royal engagement when he returned to the Britannia Royal Naval College in Dartmouth on Friday 19 December.
The 77-year-old gave a powerful speech to teach graduating officers an important lesson about leadership at the Lord High Admiral’s Division’s parade.
The monarch became emotional as he told the assembled cadets: “It’s been some 54 years since I stood where you are, as part of the Blake Division.”
In his defiant speech, after celebrating those who passed out, the monarch said: “Leadership is about character!”
Encourage the future leaders to serve the nation with distinction by achieving the highest standards.
The royal family released the monarch’s pictures with his touching words, writing: “You are all imbued with the same drive, determination and fighting spirit that carried your ancestors to victory. I can only wish you all possible success and good luck…”
During the visit, the King inspected troops, officers from the Commonwealth and other countries, including Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
He himself came to Dartmouth over 50 years ago, on September 16, 1971, as a member of the Blake Division.
William and Harry’s father recalled several memories from his training days, particularly sailing lineboats along the River Dart while learning to avoid collisions with enthusiastic yacht owners.
As a graduate, he spent six weeks at Dartmouth, learning about leadership, navigation and the Royal Navy.
The Royal Family has very close links with the College and the King’s father, grandfather and great-grandfather all spent time at Dartmouth.
