While on her recent official visit to the Channel Islands, Princess Anne accomplished an unprecedented feat. Her visit was historic, as she was the first member of the Royal Family to ever step foot on Little Sark. This was an amazing moment as it coincided with her being in Japan for the commemorations’ events. She paid tribute to the World War II legacy and the island’s wartime history.
During her time on Little Sark, Princess Anne was briefed on the history of two notable British commando raids: Operation Basalt and Operation Hardtack. By shooting and sinking these assets, the operations that hunted for German positions on Sark were to collect intelligence and prisoners while still fighting during combat. The Princess’s engagement was a useful reminder of the need to continue remembering these events and their lasting effects on the local community.
Joined by her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, Princess Anne was a guest at all of the commemorations on the Island of Sark. During her visit she shared a meal with members of Little Sark, Churchtown’s small community, deepening relationships with the island’s citizens. The Princess during her visit to Sark Observatory, peering through a solar telescope with enthusiastic volunteers. During her visit, she focused on her support for local initiatives.
In a poignant speech to mark the start of the commemorations, Princess Anne beautifully reminded all of us about what peace and remembrance truly mean. She gave voice to her grandfather’s sentiments. She underlined that if we don’t respect the sacrifices of warriors who fought our wars, then we render their hardships in vain.
“We shall have failed, and the blood of our dearest will have flowed in vain, if the victory which they died to win does not lead to a lasting peace, founded on justice and established in goodwill.” – Princess Anne’s grandfather
Beyond her remarks, Princess Anne visited la Société Sercquaise, a conservation and heritage charity. There, she experienced archaeological artifacts and engaged with local volunteers who are deeply dedicated to protecting the island’s history.
While visiting, she hiked a section of the East Coast Path. There, she found amazing stories behind the missions that took place during the war. HRH, the Princess Royal, planted a silver birch tree as a symbol of her dedication to protecting the environment and tackling climate change. She visited an exhibit dedicated to WWII at Old Island Hall.
Princess Anne took time to meet local school children, who showcased their work related to the Liberation Trail exhibition. Her visit shone a spotlight on the monarchy’s long-standing devotion to the Channel Islands and their wartime legacy.
This visit was a testament to Princess Anne’s dedication to remembering those who played key roles in our past. It further underscored her intense love of place, cultural heritage, and civic engagement.
“Meeting jaw to jaw is better than war.” – Sir Winston Churchill
