Queen’s Joyful Return: Marking a Century of the Royal Australian Air Force

In a heartwarming display of resilience, Queen Elizabeth II stepped out for her first in-person engagement of 2021 on Wednesday.

This outing was particularly significant as it marked her first public appearance since her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, was discharged from the hospital after a month-long stay.

The occasion took place at the CWGC Air Forces Memorial in Runnymede, Surrey, where the Queen celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Royal Australian Air Force.

Dressed in a vibrant lime green coat, the Queen exuded elegance, accentuated by a special wattle brooch that she received during her inaugural tour of Australia back in 1954.

The memorial service was a poignant tribute, and to honor the occasion, Her Majesty's Equerry laid a wreath on her behalf, symbolizing her deep respect for those who served.

After the service, the Queen took a moment to reflect as she viewed panels inscribed with the names of Australian war heroes.

She also observed a moving display dedicated to fallen airmen and women, which filled the memorial cloister with a sense of solemn remembrance.

Following this, she engaged with current RAF personnel, showcasing her unwavering support for the armed forces.

The last time the Queen appeared in public was in December, when she and other senior royals gathered at Windsor Castle to express gratitude to key workers during the pandemic.

That gathering included notable members of the Royal Family, such as the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the Earl and Countess of Wessex, and the Princess Royal.

During her visit, the Queen was promised a delightful gift: two RAF dog jackets for her new corgis.

With a warm smile, she expressed her appreciation, saying, “That's very kind.