King Charles has honoured the courage and sacrifice of police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, sending a deeply personal message as the nation marked the fifth anniversary of the UK Police Memorial.
His Majesty’s message was read during a moving Ceremony of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, where hundreds of bereaved families, serving officers, police leaders and supporters gathered.
The King expressed on the bravery of officers who gave their lives protecting their communities, expressing hope that their loved ones would find comfort in knowing their service will never be forgotten.
“I am deeply heartened to learn of this commemoration in honour of the many gallant police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities,” the King said.
“I trust that their families will derive some comfort in knowing that their memory will forever be remembered in this way.”
He concluded his message by sending his “warmest good wishes” to everyone attending the ceremony of reflection and remembrance.
The ceremony opened with a powerful flypast by the National Police Air Service helicopter, which dipped its nose in salute over the memorial.
Standard bearers representing every UK police force formed a solemn guard of honour as the North Wales Police Choir filled Heroes’ Square with music.
Samantha Dixon, whose husband PC James Dixon of Thames Valley Police was killed in 2017, stood alongside their eight-year-old son, Parker, to read A Life That Touches Others.
2026-07-30 00:56:00
