Duchess Kate and Will commemorate World War I

Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge joined her husband Prince William and other world leaders in Liege this morning, to mark 100 years since the outbreak of World War I. A century ago today, Great Britain declared war on Germany and it’s allies, marking the beginning of four years of blood shed in Northern France and Belgium.

Over the next four years, until the armistice was signed on November 11, 1918, millions of lives were lost, including 750,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers, in what was the bloodiest conflict the world had known.

The royal couple, who are representing the Queen, were joined by dignitaries from the countries across Europe, including France, Belgium and Germany, for the ceremony at the Allies’ Memorial at Cointe, overlooking the Belgian city of Liege.

Later today they will join 500 guests including Prince Harry and Prime Minister David Cameron at a twilight ceremony at St Symphorien Military Cemetery in nearby Mons.

As part of a national day of commemoration, events marking the anniversary of the start of the Great War are being held in London, Glasgow and Belgium – starting a four-year Government-led programme of remembrance.

The royal couple were welcomed to Belgium today by the country’s King Philippe and Queen Mathilde ahead of the ceremony at Cointe.

Kate wore a cream coat dress with pleated skirt and Peter Pan collar and a pale hat and took her seat between French president Francois Hollande and husband William, who wore the Queen’s golden and diamond jubilee medals.

Fellow dignitaries included German president Joachim Gauck, as well as Belgian Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo, who all also delivered speeches during the ceremony.

Agencies/Canadajournal