Queen Returns to Work Despite Mourning Period for Prince Philip

The Queen has demonstrated her unwavering commitment to her royal duties by resuming work, even in the midst of mourning for her late husband, Prince Philip.

Just four days after his passing, on Tuesday, April 13, the devoted monarch hosted a retirement ceremony for Earl Peel, her household's most senior official and former Lord Chamberlain.

This remarkable display of dedication comes as the nation continues to pay tribute to the Duke, with heartfelt messages and flowers left at Windsor and Buckingham Palace.

Following Prince Philip's peaceful passing at the age of 99 in Windsor Castle, the family announced a two-week period of royal mourning.

Despite the grieving process, the Queen felt compelled to bid farewell to Earl Peel, who is retiring after 14 years of service as a key royal aide.

This act exemplifies Her Majesty's profound sense of duty and service.

Prince Andrew, the Queen's second son, mentioned that she is enduring this difficult time stoically, with the family rallying around to support her.

Prince William, her grandson, pledged to honor Philip's wishes and continue to support his grandmother while carrying out his responsibilities.

Princess Anne, the Queen's only daughter, participated in her first official engagement since her father's passing.

Via video link, she joined the Royal College of Emergency Medicine's Spring Conference in her capacity as the organization's patron.

The monarchy and their households will observe two weeks of royal mourning, during which family members will continue to fulfill appropriate engagements, according to a royal official.

Earl Peel had been overseeing the arrangements for Prince Philip's funeral, known as Operation Fourth Bridge, before passing on his responsibilities to his successor, former M15 Spy Chief Baron Parker, just over a week before Philip's demise.

As the Lord Chamberlain, Earl Peel was responsible for senior appointments in the household, acted as the communication link between the Sovereign and the House of Lords, and ensured coordination between Buckingham Palace and Clarence House.

During a ceremony held at Windsor Castle, the Queen graciously accepted Earl Peel's wand and insignia of office, symbolizing his retirement.

The Court Circular, which records the Queen's daily events, documented the official engagement, stating that “The Earl Peel had an audience of the Queen today, delivered up his wand and insignia of the office as Lord Chamberlain, and the badge of Chancellor of the Royal Victorian Order, and took leave upon relinquishing his appointment as Lord Chamberlain.

And Her Majesty invested him with the Royal Victorian Chain.”

The upcoming Prince Philip Farewell Service will be a unique royal funeral, with the Queen and her family adhering to face mask and social distancing protocols as they gather to bid their final farewell.

According to the Telegraph, the 94-year-old monarch may have to sit alone during the service due to social distancing rules.

She currently resides in Windsor Castle with a reduced staff of around 22 individuals, forming what is referred to as HMS Bubble.

Brigadier Archie Miller-Bakewell, Prince Philip's long-standing private secretary, may be one of the few non-royals invited to attend the historic ceremony as a member of HMS Bubble, potentially allowing him to sit with the Queen.

The funeral is scheduled to take place at Windsor Castle on Saturday, April 17.

Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the ceremony will be intimate but will be broadcasted and photographed.

Preceding the service, there will be a procession around the castle grounds.

Further details regarding the funeral, set to occur at St George's Chapel, will be announced on Thursday, according to the Daily Mail.