Queen Elizabeth just penned another rare statement, and she concluded it with a personal sign-off.
This week, the 95-year-old monarch celebrated the return of HMS Queen Elizabeth from its seven-month deployment. The queen thanked the workers for their dedication in a heartfelt message on Instagram, which she simply signed, “Elizabeth R.”
She wrote, “On the return of HMS Queen Elizabeth to her base port of Portsmouth, I send my best wishes to the 1,200 Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Royal Air Force and United States Navy and Marine Corps personnel onboard the ship. I was pleased to hear of the important work you have undertaken to build relationships between the United Kingdom and more than twenty nations during your seven-month long deployment.”
The monarch continued, “I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the wider Carrier Strike Group and hope you all have a most enjoyable and restful Christmas with your families.”
Queen Elizabeth simply signed the note, “Elizabeth R.” FYI: The R stands for Regina, which means “queen.”
The caption read, “Welcome back HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH! The Queen has sent a message welcoming the crew of HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH home for Christmas. The ship’s seven-month deployment has seen them sail across three oceans and five seas. Her Majesty’s message was read aloud to the crew as they approached Portsmouth, following their maiden deployment.”
This isn’t the first time the monarch has used the informal sign-off. In fact, she’s been using it quite frequently as of late. It all started back in July when Queen Elizabeth honored the U.K.’s National Health Service by writing a heartfelt letter. She shared a photo on Instagram of the message, which she simply signed, “Elizabeth R.”
Two months later, she penned a personal note to the U.S. on the 20th Anniversary of 9/11, followed by another statement celebrating the conclusion of the Tokyo Paralympics. She ended both messages with, “Elizabeth R.”
So subtle, yet so significant.
Stay up-to-date on every breaking royal family story by subscribing here.
