'The Rock on Which Modern Britain Was Built'

In her seven-decade dedication to a life of service to her subjects, Elizabeth II won their hearts as well as their respect

- By Jack Royston

Queen Elizabeth II famously dedicated her "whole life" to public service and was still showing politicians how it's done in her 90s, from the steadiness and compassion of her leadership during the coronavirus pandemic to her final official act two days before her death: formally appointing Liz Truss as the U.K.'s new prime minister.

Britain's longest-reigning monarch made the oft-quoted pledge to dedicate her life to her subjects on her 21st birthday in 1947, five years before she became queen. During a radio broadcast from Cape Town, South Africa, where she was on tour with her parents and younger sister, she said: "There is a motto which has been borne by many of my ancestors a noble motto, 'I serve."

She continued, "Through the inventions of science I can do what was not possible for any of them. I can make my solemn act of dedication with a whole Empire listening...I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service."

In his first address to the nation as king the day after Elizabeth's death, Charles III signaled his intention to uphold her pledge. "That promise of lifelong service, I renew to you all today," he said. "That was more than a promise, it was a profound personal commitment which defined her whole life."

Uplifting Words