Her Majesty The Queen

Combat Stress sends its deepest condolences to the Royal Family on the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. 

Queen Elizabeth II was devoted to serving this nation and the Commonwealth after ascending the throne in 1952. Serving for 70 years, she was the longest-reigning British monarch and the longest-serving female head of state in world history. 

The Queen was the only female member of the Royal Family to enter the Armed Forces and, until her death, the last surviving head of state who served in the Second World War. As sovereign, the Queen held the position of Commander-in Chief of numerous regiments in the United Kingdom and throughout the Commonwealth.  

The Queen's relationship with the Armed Forces began when, as Princess Elizabeth, she joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) as a full- time member in 1945. This close relationship with the Armed Forces continued throughout her life through regular visits to service establishments and ships. She held many military appointments and honorary ranks and spent much time meeting servicemen and women, and their families, both at home and on overseas trips.  

The Queen introduced the Elizabeth Cross in 2009, to give special recognition to the families of those who died on military operations, or as a result of terrorism, since 1948.  

An inspiration to everyone, we thank her for her life-long service and join the world in mourning her passing.