His Royal Highness made a special appearance at the Royal Chelsea Hospital yesterday to celebrate Founder’s Day- a commemoration of the hospital’s establishment by King Charles II in 1692. In an Instagram post, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex said the meeting was “especially poignant” for the Duke, who is himself a veteran after serving in Afghanistan. In a speech to Chelsea Pensioners, the new father said: “Don’t ever underestimate the joy that you bring to everyone you meet.

“You represent something really quite special, you are special, and society will always recognise that.

“That is an important part of your legacy… It’s a community that focuses on supporting each other with kindness, respect and compassion, as well as reaching out to serve the wider community.

“On this 75th Anniversary of D-Day, I can comfortably speak for everyone when I say we are honoured to be in the presence of six Normandy Landing veterans.”

The Duke was present to watch the parade and salute the Pensioners, dressed in his Blues and Royals ceremonial uniform. 

Amongst the pensioners was Colin Thackery, 89, who won Britain’s Got Talent this weekend. 

The Duke was reportedly in a boisterous mood, laughing and joking with veterans.

In his speech, the Duke said: “Your founder, King Charles II, and (the building’s designer) Sir Christopher Wren would be delighted to know that the institution which opened its doors over 325 years ago continues to fulfil its original purpose of giving exceptional care to soldiers in retirement.

“They’d also be amused to hear about the late-night cricket in the hallways.

“Much less the serenading by Colin who, I am told, is Royal Variety standard.”

A member of the royal family attends the parade for Founder’s Day every year, with the Queen herself attending four times. 

The Royal Hospital Chelsea houses around 300 veterans, many of whom have served in Korea, the Falkland Islands, Cyprus, Northern Ireland and World War II. 

The hospital is a registered care home, where retired soldiers can access a range of support services. 

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