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Saturday, May 09, 2020

The Queen's Speech

Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain marked the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day at the end of World War II with a brief, uplifting speech. She is living history, the only head of state in the world who served as active duty military during WWII.

She has been Britain's monarch throughout my life. I've always liked and admired her for her own qualities, among them her stately graciousness, keen insights, unflagging devotion to her country and to her countrymen. At age 94, she is an impressive and inspiring example of our precious Greatest Generation, those who endured through such calamities as the Great Depression and the second World War. Among her many roles, Queen Elizabeth serves as a symbol of triumph over adversity. We could all use such a good example in the many challenges we face today.

Queen Elizabeth II, left, in uniform - May 8, 1945