King Charles’ Guard Honors Victims on 25th Anniversary of 9/11 at Buckingham Palace
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The British Army commemorated the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks on Friday, September 11, with a special musical tribute during the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace.
The Band of the Coldstream Guards, accompanied by massed bands of the Guards Division, honored the 2,977 victims—including 67 British citizens—with a poignant program of American and British anthems and ceremonial hymns.
A Musical Tribute on the Palace Forecourt
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The Coldstream Guards marched toward the palace performing classic American marches, including John Philip Sousa’s “The Thunderer” and “The Stars and Stripes Forever.”
During the formal ceremony inside the gates, the band performed a commemorative program for roughly 40 invited British and American guests:
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Anthems of Both Nations: Renditions of both “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “God Save the King.”
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Solemn Hymns: John Williams’ “Hymn to the Fallen” (from Saving Private Ryan) and “Amazing Grace.”
The tribute carries historic resonance: on September 13, 2001—just two days after the attacks—Queen Elizabeth II broke centuries of royal protocol by ordering the Coldstream Guards to play the U.S. national anthem during the Guard Change as hundreds of weeping Americans gathered outside the palace gates.
Diplomatic Representation
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Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, and Birgitte, the Duchess of Gloucester, represented King Charles III on the palace forecourt.
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Taking the Salute: The Duke took the official salute alongside U.S. Ambassador to the UK Warren Stephens and his wife, Harriet Stephens.
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Government Presence: British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband also joined the royal party and diplomatic delegation to observe the performance.
Earlier Royal Tributes at Ground Zero
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The Buckingham Palace ceremony follows King Charles and Queen Camilla’s personal visit to New York City in April 2026, where they marked the upcoming 25th anniversary milestone at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum:
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Reflecting Pool Memorial: Accompanied by former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the royal couple laid a floral tribute of white blossoms at the South Pool.
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Handwritten Message: The wreath included a card handwritten by the monarch:“We honour the memory of all those who so tragically lost their lives on 11th September 2001, and stand in enduring solidarity with the American people in the face of such profound loss.”— Charles R & Camilla R
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First Responders & Families: During the visit, the King and Queen met privately with survivors, first responders from rescue operations, and charities assisting families living with long-term 9/11 health impacts.
