Queen Camilla and King Charles III appeared to tear up as a veteran went off-script to praise the monarch amid his cancer battle.
The emotional moment happened at a ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of VJ Day on Friday, August 15, marking the end of World War II. Captain Yavar Abbas took the stage for a reading from his war diary, but before he began, the 105-year-old veteran had some kind words for Charles, 76.
“Before I read the excerpt, I make due apologies for briefly going off the script to salute my brave King,” he said while raising a hand in salute, “who is here with his beloved Queen in spite of the fact that he’s under treatment for cancer.”
The camera then cut to Charles and Camilla, 78, both visibly emotional, wiping tears from their eyes.
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A cancer survivor himself, Abbas spoke of the connection he shared with Charles, who was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer in February 2024. He added that he has been “rid of [cancer] for 25 years and counting,” leading to applause from the crowd.
Charles and Camilla later shook hands with Abbas and video shared on social media showed Charles sitting down with him for a brief conversation.
“During The King’s recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, a separate issue of concern was noted,” a statement from Buckingham Palace read shortly after his diagnosis. “Subsequent diagnostic tests have identified a form of cancer.”
“His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties,” the statement continued. “Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.”
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From there, Buckingham Palace has provided periodic updates as Charles, who became king in September 2022 following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, has continued to fulfill his royal duties.
Charles himself addressed his diagnosis in December during his Christmas Day address. ABC News reported around the same time that his treatment would continue into 2025.
“From a personal point of view, I offer special, heartfelt thanks to the selfless doctors and nurses who, this year, have supported me and other members of my family through the uncertainties and anxieties of illness, and have helped provide the strength, care and comfort we have needed,” he said. “I am deeply grateful, too, to all those who have offered us their own kind words of sympathy and encouragement.”
