GB News host Bev Turner remarked that Prince William's significant involvement in the events "feels like a baton handover" from his father, King Charles. During the visit, Prince William delivered two speeches, expressing his honor to be in Normandy to "commemorate the bravery and sacrifice" of the troops 80 years ago. Addressing the crowd in Courseulles-sur-Mer, which included Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, William acknowledged the unimaginable courage it took to face the battle on D-Day.
Bev Turner highlighted the Royal Family's efforts to attend the event despite King Charles's ongoing cancer diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing Prince William's expanded role. GB News Royal Correspondent Cameron Walker noted that this marked the "first time since King Charles's cancer diagnosis that William is replacing and representing his father at an official event."
Turner suggested that King Charles's decision to have Prince William take on such a visible role "feels like a baton handover," easing William into his future responsibilities. Co-host Andrew Pierce compared this to the late Queen's gradual transition of duties to Charles due to her failing health.
Cameron Walker detailed the King's frustrations amid his health challenges, noting that King Charles would have been deeply disappointed not to attend the D-Day engagements. "If the doctors gave the green light, he absolutely would go," Walker said, emphasizing the King's dedication. Due to medical advice, Charles had to step back, despite his strong desire to represent the United Kingdom at the international commemorative ceremony.
When asked by Andrew Pierce about the reasons for the King's absence, Cameron mentioned that the Palace had not provided specific details, suggesting that the King's "possible inability to be on his feet for a long time" could be a factor.
