Amidst the royal family’s recent notable events, including the Princess of Wales Kate Middleton’s return to the public eye following surgery, a significant milestone for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has been commemorated with the royal household’s first social media post.
Shared from the palace’s official account, the post features captivating images of the Duke of Kent attending a special Service of Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey, marking the RNLI’s impressive 200-year journey of saving lives at sea.
Established in 1824, the RNLI has been a stalwart guardian of maritime safety, with nearly 150,000 lives rescued to date. From aiding distressed paddle-boarders and wild swimmers to executing intricate rescues of small boat crews, the RNLI’s commitment to safeguarding lives at sea remains unwavering.
The Service of Thanksgiving, held at Westminster Abbey, brought together representatives from RNLI lifesaving communities, showcasing both historic and modern lifeboats. Leading the commemorative celebrations were the Archbishop of Canterbury and The Duke of Kent, underscoring the profound significance of this milestone.
Queen Elizabeth II’s longstanding patronage of the RNLI since 1952, coinciding with her ascension to the throne, further highlights the royal family’s deep connection to the institution. The Duke of Kent’s stewardship, succeeding his mother, Princess Marina, as President of the charity in 1969, reflects a continued dedication to the RNLI’s mission.
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During the service, the Duke of Kent engaged with volunteers and workers, personally inspecting three emblematic lifeboats: the venerable William Riley, an oar-powered boat dating back to 1909; a D Class lifeboat; and a modern Shannon class vessel.
This social media post serves not only as a testament to the royal family’s support for vital organizations like the RNLI but also as a poignant moment following Kate Middleton’s recent recovery from surgery. It encapsulates the spirit of resilience and community that defines both the royal family and the RNLI’s enduring commitment to saving lives at sea.
