Queen Camilla to make history as she’s set to receive prestigious new title

The title has a prestigious history dating back to 1513

Queen Camilla will become the first woman and royal to receive the honorary title of Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom, it has been announced. The position was created by Henry VIII in 1513.

King Charles‘ wife will be appointed at a ceremony on the HMS Astute submarine at Devonport naval base in Plymouth today (Wednesday July 16).

It is the second title Queen Camilla will have picked up in 24 hours after she was made an honorary freeman and liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers yesterday. That honour was bestowed on her for her efforts to promote literacy.
Queen Camilla watching the military procession marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May (Credit: Splashnews.com)

Queen Camilla makes history with new title

According to the BBC, the navy said the appointment would include the formal presentation of a burgee by the head of the submarine service, Rear Admiral Andy Perks.

First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff General Sir Gwyn Jenkins RM also said Queen Camilla’s visit had been a “tremendous boost to morale and the honorary appointment reflects the high regard in which Her Majesty is held by all of us”.

As Lady Sponsor of the vessel, Queen Camilla’s maintained an ongoing support of the submarine since naming it in 2007.

She will join the 135-strong crew of HMS Astute to mark the end of its 15-year first commission.

The most recent previous Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom was Admiral Lord Boyce. He died in 2022 aged 79. Lord Boyce succeeded Sir Donald Gosling, who passed away in 2019 aged 90. Sir Donald had been appointed by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2012
Queen Camilla is the first woman and first royal appointed Vice Admiral of the United Kingdom (Credit: Splashnews.com)

‘A proud and memorable moment’

As part of her support, Queen Camilla has written to crew members at least annually. Recent care packages – said to have been “really well received on board – “featured English breakfast tea and shortbread.

HMS Astute commanding officer Commander Christopher Bate said Queen Camilla had supported the vessel since “the very beginning”.

He said to the BBC: “She has consistently shown a deep commitment to all aspects of our work.”

Queen Camilla has consistently shown a deep commitment to all aspects of our work.

He continued: “Her continued engagement with our activities and achievements over the years has meant a great deal to us.

“It is a proud and memorable moment to welcome Her Majesty to HMS Astute and for her meet our families as we mark the end of our first commission.”
Queen Camilla was previously appointed Colonel-in-Chief of the Grenadier Guards regiment in 2022 (Credit: Splashnews.com)

How will Queen Camilla receive her new title vice admiral?

During today’s ceremony in Devon, Queen Camilla will inspect a Guard of Honour of submariners. She will then descend onto the submarine’s deck.

Additionally, the Ensign and Union flag will be lowered, and the National Anthem will be played. And after that the ship’s company will perform a traditional ‘Cheer Ship’ salute.

HMS Astute is scheduled to undergo renovations at Devonport ahead of its second commission.