Special meaning behind Kate Middleton’s new title and particularly poignant motto

Her Royal Highness, The Princess of Wales, has been bestowed with a prestigious appointment as Royal Companion of The Order of the Companions of Honour by His Majesty, King Charles III. This esteemed recognition holds historical significance and is a testament to the high esteem in which the Princess is held.

On the auspicious occasion of St George’s Day, the 25th of April, the Sovereign conferred this distinguished title upon his daughter-in-law, who is currently taking a respite from official engagements while undergoing chemotherapy treatment following a cancer diagnosis earlier this year. The King’s decision to appoint the Princess of Wales as Royal Companion of The Order of the Companions of Honour is a poignant acknowledgment of her remarkable contributions.

Notably, the Princess is believed to be the first member of the Royal Family to hold this esteemed title. The Order of the Companions of Honour was founded by King George V in 1917 to recognize outstanding achievements and significant contributions over an extended period in various fields, including the arts, sciences, medicine, and public service. The motto of the Order, “In action faithful and in honour clear,” encapsulates the virtues it upholds.

Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales serves as the esteemed patron of several prestigious arts organizations, including the National Portrait Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Royal Photographic Society. Furthermore, Her Royal Highness pursued the study of art history at the University of St. Andrews, where she famously first encountered His Royal Highness Prince William, who would later become her husband.

The Order of the Companions of Honour is a distinguished order that is limited to 65 members at any given time. Among the notable current members are Dame Maggie Smith and Sir Ian McKellen, renowned actors; Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, celebrated musicians; J.K. Rowling, the acclaimed author; and Sir David Attenborough, the esteemed naturalist and broadcaster.

Past members of this esteemed order include the late Stephen Hawking, the renowned theoretical physicist; Sir Winston Churchill, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom; and Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa, a prominent figure in the anti-apartheid movement. Non-British nationals may be appointed as honorary members in addition to the core 65 members.

Royal enthusiasts may have the opportunity to witness Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales adorned with the insignia of this honor during her attendance at formal white-tie occasions, such as state visits or the annual diplomatic reception.

The insignia consists of a gold medallion suspended from a red-colored ribbon and surmounted by a crown. The medallion depicts an armored knight mounted on a horse and an oak tree from which hangs a shield bearing the Royal Arms. The blue enameled border of the medallion is inscribed with the order’s motto.

On St George’s Day, a series of formal announcements were made by His Majesty the King. Firstly, the King appointed his eldest son and heir, the Prince of Wales, as the Great Master of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath. This esteemed order, established by King George I in 1725, though believed to have origins dating back to the eighth century, is bestowed upon members of the military or civil service for exemplary service. The Prince of Wales previously held the position of Great Master from 1974 to 2022.

Furthermore, the King appointed his wife, Queen Camilla, as the Grand Master and First or Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. This role is the second most senior within the order, with the King being the sovereign. Previously, this position was held by the late Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, Queen Mary, and the abdicated Edward VIII when he was the Prince of Wales. The Order of the British Empire, established by George V in 1917, recognizes outstanding contributions by individuals within their local communities or at a national level and is the largest order of chivalry in the United Kingdom.

Additionally, His Majesty made four new appointments, which are within his personal gift, to the Order of the Garter, including the acclaimed composer Lord Lloyd Webber. The theatre impresario, renowned for his hit musicals such as The Phantom Of The Opera, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, has been appointed as a Knight Companion of the Most Noble Order of the Garter.