The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge travelled to RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus this morning to meet with Serving personnel, families living on the base, wider station personnel and members of the local community.
RAF Akrotiri is home of the Cyprus Operations Support Unit which provides joint support to British Forces Cyprus and operations in the region to protect the UK’s strategic interests.
Yesterday, William and Kate hosted a festive-filled Christmas party for RAF Families at Kensington Palace. The children present made cards and took photos in a booth for William and Kate to take to their loved ones in Cyprus today. It's undoubtedly the most difficult time of year for a parent to be separated from their child. The sacrifice those in the military make in service of their country year after year is incredible and truly selfless. The little ones at the party yesterday will love seeing photos from today's visit and the knowledge their cards and gifts were delivered by a Prince and Princess. A couple of you mentioned the Cambridges should make this an annual engagement, focused on different bases and areas of the military each year. I couldn't agree more.
During a speech yesterday Kate said: "As someone whose husband has served, I know how hard it feels when a loved one leaves to do the job they trained for,” she said. “When William served doing search and rescue, I remember how I felt, but I can’t imagine how it feel when your loved ones are away on active service during Christmas. The absence of people you love must be especially hard at this time of year."
Upon arrival, William and Kate met deployed personnel from 11 and 31 Squadrons, operating Typhoon and Tornado GR4 Squadrons aircraft respectively, who are engaged on operations in support of Op SHADER, the UK’s contribution to the ongoing campaign against Daesh. They also meet personnel from the lead infantry company of 2 Mercians, who have recently been supporting Op TORAL in Afghanistan.
They spoke to personnel about the party at Kensington Palace and plans for Christmas.
Hannah Furness reports a soldier said the visit was "important" and "really appreciated".
7,500 military personnel are currently serving overseas or away from home on exercises. A large portion of these have children who will have a parent away over the festive period.
Prince William thanked those serving during a speech: "All of this work is done without fanfare. You don’t seek praise for your contribution. It’s not about credit or recognition - for you, it’s just about service. But as we approach Christmas, Catherine and I feel strongly that praise for your work and recognition of your sacrifices is exactly what is due to you all. From my time in uniform, we both know a bit of what it feels like to balance your work commitments with your family life."
He continued: "You all put duty first. And so do your families, some of whom we had the chance to meet yesterday at a party at Kensington Palace. We know this isn’t easy for you or for your wives, husbands, children, and friends back in the UK. On behalf of everyone back home, we would like to say thank you."
The Duke and Duchess visited and officially opened the Oasis centre which is used by Serving personnel on the base as a recreation area when they are not on shift. The centre has recently been renovated by staff working on the base, with trade work having been provided by members of the local Cypriot community.
Before unveiling a plaque, William and Kate visited the cinema room and the video room where personnel can make private calls to their family and friends back home, and the café area which is run by CESSAC. CESSAC is The Church of England Soldiers’, Sailors’ and Airmen’s Club which operates amenity centres in military stations and other places at home and abroad and manages rented housing for elderly ex-Forces personnel and their families.
The couple joined families at a Christmas reception.
Hello! reports:
Emily Nash reports Kate said Louis is learning to wave and promised a little girl she would come back in a pink dress and a crown :)
'Corporal Karl Noakes from RAF Marham, said he had been sent pictures of his daughter Alysia, two, at yesterday’s Christmas party at the palace. He said: “It’s a tough one. I’ve been away lots of times and it’s never easy but it’s very different now I am a dad. My little girl is now asking for me when we speak and even playing her mother off against me when he is playing up. It’s difficult all round. I’m complete lost in admiration for what my wife, Nicole, does when I’m not they, especially work Christmas coming up.”
A nice video from the Christmas party.
During a walkabout they met families living on the base.
Emily Nash reports Kate said Louis is learning to wave and promised a little girl she would come back in a pink dress and a crown :)
This little guy was determined to say Hello :)
William meeting a shy little girl. Rebecca English said George asked him to take a photo of the helicopters before he left this morning.
The Duchess opted for a green blazer, white top and navy wide leg trousers. I know many of you have been hoping to see Kate wear more trousers for official engagements for some time. It's a very professional look.
The Duchess opted for a green blazer, white top and navy wide leg trousers. I know many of you have been hoping to see Kate wear more trousers for official engagements for some time. It's a very professional look.
Kate wore her Smythe Duchess Blazer. The army green blazer features peak lapels, long sleeves with button cuffs, front button closure, chest and waist welt pockets. The blazer is available in a number of sizes at Saks Fifth Avenue.
Kate debuted the piece during the 2016 Canada tour.
A closer look at Kate's navy trousers.
Middleton Maven suggests they could be the £130 Jigsaw High Waisted Sport Luxe Trousers.
Kate's green croc belt has been in her wardrobe for several years. Below, a closer look at the piece from St Patrick's Day 2014.
Kate's carried the L.K. Bennett Dora khaki suede clutch (with thanks to Laura). It's currently on sale for £119.
It is thought Kate's pumps are by Gianvito Rossi.
The Duchess accessorised with her Asprey Oak leaf earrings.
And Cartier Ballon Bleu watch.
In other news, Kate took Charlotte to the Royal Opera House last Thursday for a rehearsal of The Nutcracker. The Duchess saw the production last year and obviously wanted to share it with her daughter. Both William and Kate have discussed Charlotte's love of dance, I imagine she had a wonderful time. There's one photo available to view on Instagram here.
