Prince William and Kate share ‘Lest we forget' message with royal children absent

The Prince and Princess of Wales shared a heartfelt Remembrance Sunday message as the Royal Family gathered in London to honour those who gave their lives in service. Kensington Palace posted a message on Instagram, paying tribute to those who have served and continue to serve in defence of the nation's freedom. 'Honouring all those who have served, and continue to serve, in defence of our freedom,' the Palace wrote. 'On this day, we remember those who gave their lives in service, and reflect on the lasting impact of their sacrifice. 'We remember them today and always. Lest we forget.' The tribute came as King Charles led the nation at the Cenotaph, wearing the ceremonial uniform of a field marshal with a greatcoat, cap and sword. The King laid the first wreath before leading the two-minute silence at 11am. Prince William, who began his military career after graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in December 2006 as a second lieutenant, followed his father in laying a wreath at the war memorial. The younger generation of the Wales family was notably absent from the ceremony. Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis did not attend the Cenotaph service. A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales) Ahead of the ceremony, Andy Burnham paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces and veterans, describing Remembrance Sunday as an opportunity to reflect on the courage and sacrifice behind military service. 'I'm incredibly proud to be honouring those whose sacrifice continues to protect our way of life to this day,' he said. 'Remembrance Sunday gives us an opportunity, not only to mark that sacrifice and offer our gratitude, but also to reflect on its significance. To reflect on the selflessness and courage it takes to commit your life to protecting others.' He added: 'I want to offer my personal thanks to those who served and those who continue to serve in our Armed Forces communities to this day.'