This past week, the U.K. observed Remembrance Day on November 11, a holiday which is meant to honor members of the Armed Forces who have died in the line of duty. Many of the traditions related to Remembrance Day include the royal family, like the Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall and the Remembrance Sunday service.
However, when the service took place early this Sunday, there was one figure who was notably absent: Queen Elizabeth.
In a message from Buckingham Palace, it was revealed that Her Royal Majesty sprained her back prior to the event and was unable to attend. According to CNN, the official statement said, “The Queen, having sprained her back, has decided this morning with great regret that she will not be able to attend today's Remembrance Sunday Service at the Cenotaph. Her Majesty is disappointed that she will miss the service.”
A royal source also added, “The Queen was deeply disappointed to miss the engagement which she considers one of the most significant engagements of the year, and hopes to continue as planned with her schedule of light official duties next week.”